Steven Pienaar has defended his decision to quit Everton for Tottenham by claiming that he was growing complacent on Merseyside.
South African playmaker determined to make his mark at Spurs
Steven Pienaar has defended his decision to quit Everton for Tottenham by claiming that he was growing complacent on Merseyside.
The South Africa international completed a switch to White Hart Lane in January 2011, with a fresh start supposed to inject new life into his career.
He has, however, been plagued by injuries during his time in the capital, leaving him short on regular first-team football.
It had been suggested that Pienaar could be tempted to return to Everton on loan, allowing him to get the game time he craves.
The 29-year-old has sought to bring an end to those rumours, though, by insisting that he is determined to make his mark at Spurs - starting in their midweek meeting with the Toffees.
Challenge
"Everton will always have a special place in my heart," Pienaar told the
Daily Star.
"At Everton we had a great manager but the squad was a bit smaller and sometimes you get to a point where you don't push yourself anymore.
"For me, I just needed to move on and challenge myself. It's always good because you can push yourself. You have to make sure you reach your limit.
"I would love to play against Everton because it's always a special feeling to play against your old club.
"David Moyes gave me an opportunity to show myself in England and I'll always be grateful to the club and the supporters."
