‘Vitalii Mykolenko could be out for months’ after injury news ahead of Everton vs Brighton
Vitalii Mykolenko missed the opening Premier League game of the season as Everton lost to Leeds United at Elland Road.
Ahead of the game, David Moyes admitted that the Ukraine international may be available, but his absence meant James Garner started at left-back for Everton.
Moyes’ side take on Brighton next at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday and will hope that Mykolenko is available for that one.
This story includes exclusive opinion from injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and a Sports Scientist.
Vitalii Mykolenko may miss Brighton clash
The 26-year-old left-back picked up an injury in the pre-season game between Everton and Roma.
He had to be taken off in the 12th minute of the match on 9 August, with Moyes later confirming it to be a groin issue.
Dr Rajpal Brar believes that this likely means an adductor problem and he could miss the Brighton clash if he’s not yet back in training.
| Stat | Mykolenko |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
The injury expert told Goodison News: “Difficult to pinpoint the specifics of this injury, because all we know is that it’s a groin issue, which likely means an adductor problem.
“His return would depend on the severity of the injury.
“If it’s a strain, a mild one can be seven to 10 days where whereas severe ones can be months.
“He may miss the game at the weekend if he’s not already back in training.”
Everton need Vitalii Mykolenko back against Brighton
Everton’s loss to Leeds highlighted the critical absence of Mykolenko, whose defensive stability and overlapping runs were sorely missed. Leeds exploited the left flank, with makeshift options unable to contain their wingers.
Facing Brighton next, the Toffees face further challenges if the Ukrainian and Adam Aznou remain sidelined.
Brighton’s dynamic attack could exploit this weakness, potentially leading to another defeat.
Everton’s backline, already shaky, desperately needs Mykolenko’s experience or Aznou’s energy to avoid two defeats in a row.
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