Everton star covered in blood after clashing with team-mate in Aston Villa draw
Vitalii Mykolenko, Everton’s defender, was left bloodied following a collision with his team-mate James Tarkowski during their Premier League match against Aston Villa. The Ukrainian international received on-field treatment and was eventually able to complete the game with a bandage around his head. The clash resulted in a delay, and an additional seven minutes were added at the end of the match.
Despite the injury, Mykolenko played a crucial role in Everton’s impressive defensive effort, becoming only the third team to prevent Unai Emery’s Villa from scoring in a Premier League match this season. As a result, Villa remains in third place, while Everton is currently in 17th place, one point ahead of relegation rivals Luton.
The match itself provided moments of excitement, although no goals were scored. Both teams had goals disallowed due to offside calls. Alex Moreno’s first-half opener was ruled out, as well as Abdoulaye Doucoure’s late effort. Villa manager Unai Emery experienced his first goalless draw in 97 games in English football, dating back to his time as the Arsenal boss. The team’s recent form of one win in four games sees them currently sitting in fifth place, behind Manchester City on goal difference.
Everton knew that their position outside the bottom three was secured after their rivals Burnley and Luton drew in a previous match. As they fight to move towards safety, every point matters for Everton, especially after being hit with a points deduction earlier in the campaign.
James Tarkowski, who was involved in the collision, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. He mentioned being at the center of the cuts and bruises during the game but remained glad that the VAR decision went in their favor. He acknowledged the challenge of the 10 point penalty they face and emphasized the importance of continuing to accumulate points.
Looking ahead, Everton is scheduled to face Crystal Palace in their FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday. Striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be available for the match after his red card from the initial game was overturned. Calvert-Lewin will be eager to get back amongst the goals, having missed a great opportunity against Villa’s goalkeeper Emi Martinez on Sunday.
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