Everton left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko has offered a frank assessment of his performances since arriving at Goodison Park, admitting that his attacking numbers have not been good enough — but also suggesting that past team setups limited his opportunities going forward.
Speaking to Sport UA, the 26-year-old acknowledged that he must “progress in the final third” as Moyes encourages a more expansive approach this season.
“The truth is that I need to progress in the game in the final third of the field,” Mykolenko said. “Of course, at Dynamo I had different numbers. You shouldn’t compare Dynamo and Everton. For three seasons we have been constantly in the relegation zone, and for the most part we don’t feel like attacking.”
From Digne to Dyche — and Now Moyes
Mykolenko joined Everton from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2022, replacing Lucas Digne following the Frenchman’s exit to Aston Villa. Filling the shoes of both Digne and Leighton Baines — two full-backs known for their attacking flair — has proved no easy feat.
Baines registered 39 goals and 59 assists for the Toffees, while Digne managed six goals and 20 assists during his time in blue. Mykolenko’s record, by contrast, stands at four goals and three assists in all competitions — a reflection, he said, of the defensive style under former boss Sean Dyche.
That approach has shifted since David Moyes returned to the club, with Everton seeking more width and attacking intent from their full-backs.
“We Are Actively Working On My Attacking Play”
Mykolenko admitted that after several years of being told to stay deep, adapting to a more proactive role has taken time.
“The new coach David Moyes and I started playing differently, and I agree that I need to add to my attacking play. For three years I hardly attacked, and now I need to be better at the other team’s goal. We are actively working on my attacking play.”
The Ukrainian defender’s honesty struck a chord with fans, many of whom have long felt his attacking potential has been underused. With Everton looking to climb the table under Moyes, Mykolenko’s development could prove key to restoring balance down the left flank.
Our View — Signs of Growth in a New System
In our view, Mykolenko’s comments reflect both accountability and quiet frustration. The full-back has earned praise for his defensive discipline but clearly wants to evolve into a more complete player. Moyes’ system offers that opportunity — but to match his predecessors, Mykolenko will need to turn words into end product.
Key Insights
- Big takeaway: Mykolenko admits he “hardly attacked” under previous Everton managers.
- Quote: “For three years I hardly attacked… now I need to be better at the other team’s goal.”
- Coach impact: David Moyes encouraging full-backs to play higher up the pitch.
- Career stat: 4 goals, 3 assists since joining in January 2022.
- Form focus: Everton working to balance defensive structure with attacking risk.
What’s Next
Everton face Fulham next in the Premier League, where Mykolenko is expected to continue his run as first-choice left-back. His growing attacking confidence could be vital as Moyes looks to push his side further up the table.
👉 Everton fans — do you think Mykolenko has the potential to follow in Digne’s or Baines’ footsteps?
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