Vitalii Mykolenko shares Everton injury update and explains decision to play on against Liverpool

Everton defender Vitalii Mykolenko has confirmed he will not require surgery on the ankle injury he picked up in the Merseyside derby.

The Ukraine international was taken off at half time during the 2-0 win over Liverpool. Mykolenko went down in clear discomfort and tried to play on, but was eventually replaced by Ashley Young.

The left-back missed the 1-0 victory over Brentford on Saturday and there were fears he would require surgery, meaning he could also potentially miss the European Championship this summer for Ukraine.

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However, the defender has provided a positive update on his recovery in an Instagram post, in which he also confirms he will not play for Everton again this season.

"Firstly I want to say to everyone thank you very much for the words of support, I read everything and see. I do not need surgery and now my goal is to recover as soon as possible and I hope to see you at the Euros," said Mykolenko.

"For Evertonians, you have been amazing this season, particularly in derby. That's why I stood up after twist and played as much as I could. See you next season Toffees."

After taking time to settle after his move to Merseyside in January 2022, Mykolenko has been one of Everton's standout players this season.

Under manager Sean Dyche he has developed into a solid presence at left-back and has also chipped in with two goals in the Premier League.

Mykolenko is also a key figure for his country and will be desperate to be ready for this summer's major tournament in Germany. Ukraine begin their Euros with