Pienaar back to help the Everton cause

It was not the direction he had planned. But after a brief, nightmarish spell with Bidvest Wits, 36-year-old former Bafana Bafana captain Steven Pienaar has secured a plum post as English Premiership club Everton’s first international ambassador.

Pienaar announced his retirement soon after a combination of lingering injuries, a suspension and consequent indifferent form had resulted in an early termination of his contract with Wits.

Now in the wake of the disappointing end to his auspicious playing career that lasted almost two decades, the diminutive, crafty former Bafana, Ajax Amsterdam, Dortmund, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Sunder- land midfielder is set to continue his soccer connection in a different manner.

Born in the Westbury district of Johannesburg, Pienaar probably carved his varied career to aspire to its most impressive level in the colours of Everton and it is therefore appropriate that he is rejoining the Merseyside club in an administrative role.

And his appointment was probably due to a combination of the popularity he maintained with the fans during his many years with Everton, with that of his experience of playing in South Africa, the Netherlands, Germany and England.

He will not only be entrusted with enhancing the worldwide image of Everton, but also unearth talent that can hopefully benefit the club.