Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has finally completed his return to Russia after agreeing to join Spartak Moscow, Everton have confirmed.
The Blues accepted an undisclosed fee from Spartak for the services of their enigmatic Russian last week.
The 26-year-old, who failed to hold down a regular place at Goodison Park, has since completed a medical and agreed personal terms with the Russian giants meaning a deal has now been finalised.
The switch brings an end to Bilyaletdinov's two and a half years on Merseyside where he will be remembered as much for the brilliant as for the baffling.
Bily, as he became affectionately known among Evertonians, secured his place in Goodison Park folklore in February of 2010 when he stunned Manchester United with a left footed rocket that sent the Toffees on their way to a famous 3-1 victory.
The Russian sent a fond farewell to his former club via his Twitter page, thanking his supporters and teammates.
He tweeted: "Time to say goodbye! Thanks to everyone who supported me these 2,5 years! I had great time in Everton!
"Big thanks to the team, managers, staff and fans! Good luck Everton! COYB!!))"
Manager David Moyes thanked Bilyaletdinov for his hard work at Everton and wished him well in his future career.
Moyes said: "He was a great boy to work with, a really good professional.
"When he played he was totally committed and he did everything he could to succeed.
"We wish him well. It just didn't quite work and obviously we've decided to sell.
"But I couldn't fault anything that he did – he is a good lad.”
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