Everton summer boost after scans reveal extent of Vitalii Mykolenko injury

Scans have provided hope the ankle injury suffered by Vitalii Mykolenko earlier this week is not serious.

The left back pulled up in agony during Ukraine’s friendly with Moldova, sparking concerns he could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

But MRI scans have suggested that will not be the case.

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Ukraine are confident enough in the 25-year-old’s condition to keep him with the squad as it prepares to take part in the Euros.

An update on the squad said head doctor Roman Zholobailyuk had been monitoring Mykolenko through scans on Wednesday and that “the examination showed that Vitalii managed to avoid the worst consequences”. Medics with the camp believe he could recover in time to feature during the tournament.

The news is a significant boost to Sean Dyche and director of football Kevin Thelwell. Mykolenko proved to be a key player last season after forcing his way into the starting line-up ahead of Ashley Young. Everton face a tough summer in which Thelwell is tasked with strengthening a threadbare squad while also handling anticipated player sales and club financial and regulatory issues.

That work has received a boost with a new deal for club captain Seamus Coleman announced on Friday. He will stay with the Blues for a 16th season. Young has also been offered an extension and dropped public hints he would like to stay with the club.