Vitalii Mykolenko makes a timely return to Everton’s starting line-up as the Blues prepare to face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon, with manager David Moyes opting for just one change from the side that drew 1-1 at Brighton last weekend.
The Ukrainian full-back replaces Jarrad Branthwaite, who drops to the bench, restoring balance to an otherwise settled defence. Jordan Pickford continues in goal behind a back four of Mykolenko, Michael Keane, James Tarkowski and Jake O’Brien. The match also marks a milestone for Keane, who makes his 200th Premier League start for the club.
In midfield, James Garner and Idrissa Gana Gueye anchor the team, providing defensive stability. Harrison Armstrong, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye are expected to operate further forward in support of striker Thierno Barry, who leads the line.
There is also a place among the substitutes for new arrival Tyrique George, who completed an initial loan move from Chelsea earlier this week. He is joined on the bench by Mark Travers, Nathan Patterson, Beto, Tyler Dibling, Charly Alcaraz, Branthwaite, Merlin Röhl and Tim Iroegbunam.
Everton will be hoping Mykolenko’s return strengthens their defensive shape as they look to claim a valuable result on the road.
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