Everton’s resurgence under Sean Dyche has seen several players transform from past disappointments to pivotal figures in the team, writes the Everton.News. One such player is Vitaliy Mykolenko, whose remarkable turnaround has been a standout feature of the Toffees’ recent form.
Mykolenko, initially written off after a challenging debut season in the Premier League, has blossomed into a top performer this campaign. The Ukrainian international showcased his resurgence by scoring the opening goal against Crystal Palace, marking his second consecutive week finding the net.
BBC pundit Garth Crooks expressed his astonishment at Mykolenko’s offensive prowess, particularly his presence in the Crystal Palace six-yard box during open play. Crooks noted, “I know the defender scored against Brighton last week, but it seems as though he has developed a taste for goals.”
While acknowledging Mykolenko’s attacking contributions, Crooks also highlighted the defender’s solid defensive showing. Mykolenko’s defensive capabilities were on full display against top wingers like Mohamed Salah and Jarrod Bowen in recent weeks, showcasing his unwavering confidence.
Since joining Everton in a £20 million deal in January 2022, Mykolenko has exceeded expectations. Initially tasked with filling the void left by Lucas Digne’s departure, the young defender has not only embraced defensive responsibilities but has also demonstrated improved offensive capabilities.
Against Crystal Palace, Mykolenko registered five clearances, two interceptions, and three tackles, further solidifying his status as a defensive stalwart. His consistent form this season, evident in his performances and statistics via Sofascore, reflects his newfound confidence and effectiveness on the pitch.
Mykolenko’s journey from being written off to becoming a hero exemplifies Everton’s collective resurgence under Dyche, with players like him playing a crucial role in the team’s recent successes.