David Moyes happy with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov after 'difficult time'

Diniyar Bilyaletdinov's chances have been limited (GETTY IMAGES)

Everton manager David Moyes has praised the attitude of winger Diniyar Bilyaletdinov during a "difficult time" for the Russia international.

After a couple of substitute appearances he made back-to-back starts in mid-September but with the emergence of loan signing Royston Drente the 26-year-old found himself watching from the bench for five successive games.

Drenthe's suspension allowed him a way back into the team against Manchester United last month and although he returned to the bench following the Dutchman's return, injury gave him another opportunity against Bolton at the weekend.

The Russian has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park this season but Moyes is hopeful the player will come good again.

"We have given him lots of opportunities. I would hate to think people believe we haven't, but of course when players are out of the side they are bursting for an opportunity," he told evertonfc.com

"Players at this level realise when you don't play well you can't expect to play but I think they also want the manager to give them a bit of confidence, to pick them again and say 'Come on, can you do it again?'.

"He did quite well early in the season but then I decided to make some changes and he missed out and he was really unlucky in that sense.

"What he wants is to be given an opportunity, he wants a chance like all players do.

"But I have to say he's never complained for a minute. He's got on with his work, he's been a pleasure every day in training.

"If people aren't aware of the effort he puts in then they should realise that he's a top professional.

"He sometimes doesn't get enough credit. He's actually a boy who is desperate to do well, a really conscientious worker.

"It's been a difficult time for him and we hope he can continue like this."

PA