Bilyaletdinov set for Toffees start

Posted Thursday, September 17, 2009 by PA

Everton manager David Moyes will give his new #10million Russian winger Diniyar Bilyaletdinov his full debut as his injury-depleted side begin their Europa League campaign at home to AEK Athens.

But Moyes will be without captain Phil Neville, out for three months with suspected knee ligament damage, suspended full-back Tony Hibbert and ineligible new defender John Heitinga.

Playmaker Mikel Arteta now faces a further six weeks of treatment after a setback in his recovery from a knee operation, while Victor Anichebe is still a long-term injury problem.

So for the Everton boss, facing a new European campaign and unimpressive form in the early Premier League matches, there are plenty of problems.

Moyes said: "Getting through the play-off round was important and now I desperately want to get beyond the group stage.

"We have certainly got a few problems. Phil Neville will be out for three months, Tony Hibbert is suspended and John Heitinga is ineligible.

"But I intend to give Bilyaletdinov his debut. It will take him time to settle in here since his move from (Lokomotiv) Moscow, and he will find the pace of the game in England difficult to adjust to.

"But he has skill and wants to get his career here going. I also want to see him playing and the quicker he gets games under his belt the better."

AEK coach Dusan Bajevic is hoping to take advantage of Everton's problems.

The 62-year-old said: "Everton are a very good side, when they have all their players fit. Then they are strong in defence and midfield. But we are aware of their problems."

But he added: "We do know and accept that they are one of the best teams in England. Their league position and FA Cup final appearance last season proves that.

"It will be a very difficult game for us. In England matches are very quick, but we believe we can handle that."