Vitaliy Mykolenko has been speaking to Zorya Londonsk about his time at Everton so far, following a £17m move to the Premier League.
Interestingly, the left-back revealed that Seamus Coleman sent him a text message after the pair met on Merseyside upon his arrival.
What’s the story?
Well, we already knew that Coleman is a leader and an example amongst the Everton squad – that is only reinforced by what he messaged Mykolenko.
The Ukraine international said: “Seamus Coleman (is like a father figure). He’s a captain with a big ‘C’.’
‘He texted me at night on NYE: “Was great to meet you today. Happy you’re part of the team. I get it’s a difficult time for you but be strong and I’ll be there to help you.”’
What a teammate Coleman is. Of course, it’s only a small gesture, but it must’ve meant the world to Mykolenko to receive such a text.
Settling in a new country at the age of just 22 is extremely tough, even more so during a global pandemic.
Therefore, it’s possible that Coleman’s message went a long way in helping to ease the new boy’s nerves about moving to Goodison Park.
Vitaliy Mykolenko has a big opportunity at Everton
In hindsight, it now looks like a major mistake to have sold Lucas Digne due to a fallout with Rafa Benitez.
The Spaniard is now gone, and under Frank Lampard, Digne could’ve thrived while supplying the likes of Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek with crosses.
Nevertheless, the situation is what it is, and Mykolenko has been granted a big opportunity in the wake of Digne and Benitez falling out.
In that respect, he must grab his chance with both hands.
Lampard didn’t sign Mykolenko, and should the Ukrainian fail to settle down before the season is over, the ex-Chelsea man may want a new left-back of his own.
Hopefully, that doesn’t end up being the case.
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