Four Everton Players Who Could Play a Starring Role at Euro 2024

The curtain has come down on the 2023/24 domestic season and now, attention has turned to continental matters. First, of course, there is the small matter of the UEFA Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid. That particular clash will take place at Wembley on June 1st. A fortnight later, however, things hot up as UEFA Euro 2024 gets underway. 

The tournament kicks off on June 14th as hosts Germany face off against Scotland at the Allianz Arena, home of Bayern Munich. Across the month that follows, 24 of the continent's best international teams will battle it out for the honor of being crowned European champion. The tournament culminates on July 14th at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, and Gareth Southgate's England are amongst the frontrunners for glory. 

As the action nears ever closer, it isn't just traditional media outlets that are abuzz with excitement. Alternative sources reaching as far and wide as online casinos are also covering the auction, bringing fans closer to the beautiful game than ever before by providing football-themed online pokies for real money to their customers. Games such as Streetball Star and Zombie FC have proven hugely popular with punters, as has virtual football, which allows players to bet on simulated matches 24/7. These immersive pokies games capture the excitement of football with graphic designs, animations, and bonus features tied to the sport.

Everton, or Merseyside Blue due to licensing reasons, is one of the teams featured in the digital realm. And in real life, four Toffees are expected to play roles for their respective countries this summer. But who are they?

Jordan Pickford

England number one Jordan Pickford is no stranger to international tournaments. As the Three Lions' first-choice goalkeeper, he has already proven his mettle in the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020, playing a starring role in both competitions as his side reached the semifinals of the former and lost to Italy in the final of the latter. Known for his incredible shot-stopping ability, and exceptional distribution, Pickford has been a key figure under Southgate and remains so even today, despite the emergence of shotstoppers such as Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope. 

Throughout the recently concluded campaign, Pickford's performances improved drastically and took him to the levels he regularly displays on international duty. In previous tournaments, he has earned widespread acclaim, and he will be looking to build on that legacy at Euro 2024. His experience and leadership at the back provide a solid foundation for England's defense, while his already existing partnership with the four-man defense of Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw in front of him can only be beneficial in the quest for the first major trophy since 1966. 

Jarrad Branthwaite

While Pickford is a mainstay in the national team setup with his 60 caps, Jarrad Branthwaite will be looking to make an impact at a major tournament for the first time. The immensely talented 21-year-old defender has burst onto the scene at Goodson Park this season, featuring in all but four games as his side avoided the drop despite a ten-point deduction. Such has been the quality of his displays, that the academy product was awarded the club's Young Player of the Year award. 

Branthwaite isn't expected to be a starter at the Euros, but his selection in Southgate's 33-man preliminary squad is a good sign. He is expected to be called up to the full squad also, just as he was for the international friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March. Should there be an injury to the likes of Stones and Maguire, then expected to see him thrust into the limelight.

Amadou Onana

Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana is another Everton player who could have a significant impact at Euro 2024. Known for his physicality, relentless work rate, and ability to break up play, the former Lllle man has been a vital cog in Everton's midfield since joining the club in the summer of 222. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of the best defensive midfielders on the continent, and he is quickly establishing himself as a key player for Belgium.

With the Red Devils boasting a wealth of attacking talent, Onana's role as a midfield enforcer will be crucial in providing balance to the team. His ability to win duels, intercept passes, and protect the backline will allow the creative hub spearheaded by Manchester City man Kevin De Bruyne the freedom to express themselves. The 22-year-old has managed to find the net for his country, netting against England at Wembley back in March, and he will be aiming for more success in Germany this summer. 

Vitalii Mykolenko

Ukrainian full-back Vitalii Mykolenko is known for his pace, tenacity, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Those traits have endeared him to the Goodison faithful since he arrived from Dynamo Kyiv two and a half years ago. For his country, his versatility and dynamism make him a valuable asset, capable of playing in various positions across the backline.

Unfortunately for both him and national team manager Serhiy Rebrov, Mykolenko's fitness is currently touch and go. He suffered an ankle injury in the 2-0 Merseyside Derby victory against Liverpool forcing him to miss the club's final four matches. His fitness will have to be monitored ahead of Ukraine's first game against Romania on June 17th in Munich.