Ukraine manager confirms Mykolenko will miss Nations League clash with Northern Ireland
Ukraine head coach Andrea Maldera has ruled out full‑back Vitaliy Mykolenko for Friday's Nations League match against Northern Ireland, citing a minor leg problem. The 27‑year‑old, who featured in Ukraine's 1‑0 win over Hungary but missed the goalless draw with Georgia, will not travel to Trnava, Slovakia, as the team seeks to avoid aggravating the issue.
Maldera told Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne: “We have a small problem with Mykolenko. He has a small problem with his leg, and we decided not to take any risks.” He added, “Unfortunately, we cannot count on Mykolenko. He is not feeling very well. We respect him and would not want him to suffer a more serious injury.”
The defender’s absence is a blow for Ukraine, who sit level on four points with Northern Ireland in Group B2, while Georgia and Hungary trail with one point each. Maldera praised the opposition, noting, “I think Northern Ireland are a good team, they have a special identity. We have a lot of respect for this team,” and warned that set‑pieces could decide a tightly contested encounter.
Mykolenko’s injury also raises concerns for Everton, where he has been a fixture in the starting XI since joining from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2022 for a reported £17 million. He has made 166 appearances for the Toffees and started all five Premier League games this season, making his fitness a priority for manager David Moyes ahead of the club’s upcoming fixture against Hull City on 11 October.
Everton fans will be hoping the issue proves truly minor, as the club’s defensive stability has relied heavily on Mykolenko’s pace and crossing ability. Moyes is expected to monitor the player closely, with the hope that he will be available for the Hull City clash.
The Nations League match remains crucial for both Ukraine and Northern Ireland, each looking to secure a top‑two finish in the group. With both sides possessing equal points, the outcome will likely hinge on the fine margins Maldera referenced – throw‑ins, set‑pieces, and the ability to stay injury‑free.