Vitalii Mykolenko issue still clear to see despite Everton win vs Ipswich

Vitalii Mykolenko's deficiencies were highlighted in Everton's 1-0 win over Ipswich.

The Blues won due to Thierno Barry deflecting James Tarkowski's effort goalwards in the first-half.

David Moyes' side were forced to hang on and could not force another goal to expand their lead.

They eventually manage that in the Hill Dickinson Stadium contest and came away with all three points.

However, despite the victory, Mykolenko's biggest problem was exposed, one that has been apparent for a long time.

The Ukrainian left-back struggled with one particular aspect of the game in the clash on Saturday.

What issue was exposed for Vitalii Mykolenko in Everton's win vs Ipswich?

Mykolenko's defensive ability can't be questioned, he is very solid in that aspect of his game, that was on display against the newly promoted side.

He managed a total of six contributions, with three tackles, one block, one clearance and one interception, while also having 11 recoveries.

However, offensively, he was dismal, and data from Fotmob shows the extent of the issue.

It is still desperately clear that he is not good enough going forward, as he did not create a single chance.

He also recorded just one completed cross from the two that he attempted, and failed with all six long ball attempts.

The problem that was apparent last season, still exists, and there is no sign that it will be sorted soon.

What can Mykolenko do to improve amid attacking struggles?

His relationship with Jack Grealish on the flank was non-existent in the 2025-26 campaign, and it looks like that is the case once again.

He needs to do more to improve his attacking output, in terms of getting the ball either to the Manchester City loanee, or another teammate in the final third.

If he could add an overlap too, to give Grealish more space to operate when he has the ball at his feet, it would give Moyes' side more chances to create opportunities.

There is no doubt that Mykolenko is brilliant defensively, but his lack of natural attacking flair sets the Toffees back.

If they want to secure European qualification at the end of the campaign, they need him to put in extra training to try and increase his contributions going forward.