|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bilayetdinov is a cult figure at Locomotiv, the captain of his club side,
and an integral part of Hiddink's plans for Euro 2008. In Hiddink's new-look
Russian national team, he has become a part of the young core of the team,
along with other talented youngsters the likes of striker Dmitry Sychev and
CSKA Moscow goalkeeper Igor. A versatile player, Bilyaletdinov can play on
the left wing, in the center of the pitch or in his most comfortable position,
just behind the strikers as an attacking midfielder. He possesses a good scoring
rate and good passing but he is best known for his dribbling and pace.
Bilayetdinov was a regular in Hiddink's ultimately successful Euro 2008 qualifying campaign,
where he was Russia's best player at Wembley in England's 3-0 win, and where he netted his
first International goal, scoring an equaliser in the 2-1 loss against Israel in the final qualifying match.
There has been a great deal of speculation concerning his future recently, as it has
become clear that a talent such as his is bound for greater things than the Russian
League. There was talk of him joining Avram Grant's set-up at Chelsea in the January
2008 transfer window, or even moving elsewhere in London, with reports suggesting
Arsenal have also been tracking his progress.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
