How Everton saved themselves millions as Vitalii Mykolenko makes new contract admission

Everton were quick to resolve Vitalii Mykolenko's contract situation in the summer.

The Ukraine international's existing deal at Hill Dickinson Stadium was due to expire in July.

That would have left Everton scrambling for both a new left-back and a right-back.

However, it was announced in early June - not long after the season had concluded - that Mykolenko had agreed a new three-year deal.

The 27-year-old has now opened up on that new deal while away on international duty.

And in the view of the defender, it is a deal that suits both parties.

What has Vitalii Mykolenko said on new Everton contract?

Mykolenko is often a frustrating presence at Everton.

However, the bottom line is that he is trusted by David Moyes, hence why he has started all seven games this season.

Had Mykolenko moved on in the summer, it would have set Everton back millions to find a replacement.

However, the former Dynamo Kyiv player has insisted that he never intended to walk away once it became clear Everton were eager to tie him down.

"It was a good contract. The club showed me respect and it's good for me and my family," he told Sport.ua.

"The most important thing for me was the people I work with. I like stability and I want to stay at the same club, with the same friends.

"When we started talking to Everton, I didn’t consider transfers and didn’t talk to any teams. I think it was good for the club too."

While it is unknown exactly how much Everton are now paying Mykolenko, the length of the deal - running until 2029 - is certainly favourable.

But Mykolenko is also right in saying it benefits Everton, too.

Why is Mykolenko not playing for Ukraine?

Mykolenko has linked up with Ukraine for their UEFA Nations League qualifiers.

However, after impressing against Hungary last week, Mykolenko was not part of the squad for the 0-0 draw with Georgia on Monday.

That is due to Mykolenko suffering a minor injury that Ukraine will not risk.

It is not yet clear if he will be used against Northern Ireland on Friday, and then in the follow-up match with Hungary next Monday.