Everton defender Vitaliy Mykolenko has revealed how he jokingly warned teammate Braiden Graham ahead of Ukraine's UEFA Nations League meeting with Northern Ireland.
The two countries face each other at Windsor Park in Belfast on Saturday, 14 November, in a crucial League B Group 2 fixture.
Mykolenko, 27, has already discussed the encounter with Graham, who has been included in Northern Ireland's senior squad.
Although the Ukrainian left-back made a playful prediction about the result, he also praised his younger Everton teammate and the atmosphere within the Northern Ireland camp.
Mykolenko sends playful warning to Graham
Speaking ahead of the international fixture, Mykolenko revealed that he had exchanged friendly words with Graham.
"We talked. I told him, 'We're going to kick your ass,'" the defender joked, according to comments reported by Ukrainian outlet Football.ua.
Mykolenko then suggested that both players could still enjoy a successful international break.
"But then again, you might go on to beat Hungary, and that way we'll both end up in good spirits."
The Everton defender made clear that the exchange was light-hearted and praised Graham's character.
"In all seriousness, though, Graham is a good guy, we talk quite a bit."
He also explained that Graham had spoken positively about Northern Ireland's collective spirit.
According to Mykolenko, the teenager believes the squad's close relationships have helped produce encouraging results.
Northern Ireland have collected eight points from their opening four Nations League matches and currently lead Group B2.
They also defeated Ukraine 3-0 in the reverse fixture in October.
Everton teammates prepare for Nations League meeting
Graham is among the 25 players selected by Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill for the final two group matches.
The young forward is continuing his development at Everton while gaining experience around the international setup.
Mykolenko, meanwhile, is an established Ukraine international and will be hoping to help his country respond to October's defeat.
Ukraine have four points from four matches and need a positive result to improve their position.
Despite the competitive stakes, Mykolenko's comments underline the friendly relationship between the two Everton players.
Their next meeting at club level could provide an opportunity for further good-natured teasing.
Key Points
- Mykolenko jokingly warned Everton teammate Graham ahead of Ukraine's meeting with Northern Ireland.
- The Ukrainian defender also praised Graham and Northern Ireland's team spirit.
- Northern Ireland lead Nations League Group B2, having beaten Ukraine 3-0 in October.
What's Next?
Northern Ireland host Ukraine on Saturday, 14 November, before travelling to Hungary on Tuesday, 17 November. Ukraine face Georgia on the same day.
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