Steven Pienaar played 45 minutes for the U21s against Schalke after another long spell on the sidelines. Everton must now be careful with their next move in they want to make the most out of what’s left of him.
Pienaar signed in 2007 in a transfer window which in hindsight looks to be the best David Moyes had at Everton. He signed along with Leighton Baines, club captain Phil Jagielka and one time top goalscorer Yakubu.
In the South Africans first spell he had pace and a great ability to beat his man. He impressed Moyes enough to hand him a permanent deal at the club.
Later in his career Steven had a short 12 months away from Everton. He returned due to a frustrating spell at Spurs, resigning on deadline day in 2012.
Pienaar’s return was inspired as he made a huge impact, he was never really replaced and when he finally was, it just so happened to be Pienaar that had replaced himself.
Pienaar has done what most other players haven’t, he has changed his entire game in order to extend his career. The irony being it may have hindered him. After he lost most of his pace he started to become a more technical player. Threading balls in to players and creating space off the ball.
The 33 year old has the ability to slow the game down by winning fouls. This may have caused more injuries the he would have liked. He has spent most of his Everton career under Martinez watching from the stands.
A common sight in recent seasons.
With Martinez reluctant to play two wingers Pienaar must be fully fit in order to help Everton in that role. When attacking Pienaar can still beat his man, yet still drop in as a third centre midfielder when the team is under pressure.
It is important he returns at the right time and he’s not rushed back causing another injury which will effectively end his Everton career.
Steven Pienaar may be 33 but Everton can still utilize him in a way that can make us strong. In the meantime Martinez must be actively looking for a replacement so Everton don’t suffer in the long term. Short term Pienaar may still have a lot to offer.
