Everton injury scare

Ukraine international Vitalii Mykolenko was substituted after 10 minutes in Everton's pre season friendly with Roma at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton face early injury scare as Mykolenko leaves against Roma

Vitalii Mykolenko collapsed after a sliding challenge and was substituted in the tenth minute of Everton's friendly with Roma at Hill Dickinson Stadium. He received on pitch treatment before club medical staff decided to replace him, raising early concerns about his fitness ahead of the season.

The issue comes with Everton already weighing squad depth in the left back area after Ashley Young's departure. The club have added young Adam Aznou from Bayern Munich, and have other new names in the pipeline while Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski returned to fitness in the buildup to the new campaign. The match served as the final warm up before the league curtain raiser next weekend and underscored ongoing questions about cover in defence for the opening fixtures.

The scare highlights a broader problem for Everton: how to balance minutes and protection for a thinner squad in key positions. Left back depth stands out as a potential bottleneck if Mykolenko suffers a lengthy spell, making pre season results in this area more meaningful. The club must weigh rotation needs against the risk of fatigue and further injuries as they build up to the season. Managers will be watching closely how youth and new signings integrate and whether additional cover is required before the window closes.

Highlights

Health and depth will shape Everton as the season approaches