Vitaliy Mykolenko has entered the history books of English football by becoming the Ukrainian record holder for the most appearances in the English Championship. In a 9th-round Premier League fixture against Newcastle, the defender was named in Everton's starting lineup and played the full 90 minutes, marking his 151st match in the top flight. Consequently, the 27-year-old player overtook Oleksandr Zinchenko in this metric to claim the top spot in the ranking of Ukrainian footballers in the Premier League. Further details about the achievement and the match context can be found in the report by Sport RBC.UA citing Suspilne Sport.
A Long-Awaited Record
This highly anticipated milestone was achieved during the 9th-round Premier League clash where Everton hosted Newcastle. Mykolenko not only made the matchday squad but started the game and stayed on the pitch until the final whistle. This 151st Premier League appearance elevated the defender to first place among all Ukrainian players who have featured in England's strongest division. For the team, this was also a crucial moment: the Toffees secured a narrow 1-0 victory, breaking a three-match winless streak in the Premier League and adding even more significance to Mykolenko's personal contribution.
Who He Surpassed
Oleksandr Zinchenko now occupies second place in the ranking of Ukrainian Premier League record holders, with 150 appearances in the English championship. Throughout his career, the midfielder has played for Manchester City, Arsenal, and Nottingham Forest, and it is his mark of 150 matches that Mykolenko has surpassed. Thus, the hierarchy among Ukrainians in the Premier League has shifted: Mykolenko is in first place (151 matches) and Zinchenko is in second (150 matches). The margin is minimal, but it is precisely what determines the new record holder.
The Journey from Dynamo to Everton
Vitaliy Mykolenko moved to Everton from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2022. Over nearly five years with the Merseyside club, he has made 151 Premier League appearances and over 160 matches across all competitions, establishing himself as a key squad member. His consistent presence in the starting lineup and defensive reliability have made him a pillar of the team, and his new status as a record holder underlines his importance to both the club and Ukrainian football in England as a whole.
New Contract and UPL Context
In June 2026, Everton extended Mykolenko's contract for another three years, tying him down until the end of June 2029. This club decision reflects long-term plans regarding the defender and his role within the squad. Meanwhile back home, another Ukrainian footballer has made history: in the Ukrainian Premier League, Andriy Yarmolenko became the league's top scorer. Combined, these events form a notable wave of achievements by Ukrainian players at various levels during the current season.
