NEW signing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov is ready to become Everton’s wing commander – as Ever Banega explained why he didn’t follow the Russian to Goodison.

Bilyaletdinov was David Moyes’s most expensive capture of the summer having arrived for £9million from Lokomotiv Moscow last week.

The 24-year-old, who made his debut as a late substitute in the 2-1 win over Wigan Athletic last Sunday, is currently preparing for his country’s forthcoming World Cup qualifying double header against Liechtenstein and Wales.

Bilyaletdinov’s preferred position is on the left wing, but during his final season at Lokomotiv operated primarily on the opposite flank.

And the Russian believes he can be an effective threat on either side of midfield.

“My position is left-sided but not as a winger, I come inside then go outside,” said Bilyaletdinov. “Last year I played on the right – I prefer the left but it’s not a problem, from the right I can cut in and shoot more than from the left.”

Although having thus far only had a fleeting stop on Merseyside, Everton’s Finch Farm training complex has made an immediate impact on Bilyaletdinov. “It’s a very big training ground and it’s very good,” he said. “The swimming pool, the gym, they are very good and they can help to get good results.

“I know Jo from playing for CSKA and I also know (Steven) Pienaar, (Mikel) Arteta, (Tim) Howard, Phil Neville and (Marouane) Fellaini – he’s a big guy!”

While Bilyaletdinov is becoming accustomed to his new surroundings, former Everton target Ever Banega admits the time wasn’t right to make a similar move.