Former Tottenham Hotspur, Everton winger Steven Pienaar retires

Steven Pienaar has announced his retirement from football at the age of 35 after being released by South African club Bidvest Wits.

The former Tottenham Hotspur, Everton and Sunderland winger spent a decade in English football before moving back to his homeland last year.

Having been left without a club since the end of 2017, Pienaar has now decided to bring down the curtain on a playing career that started with Ajax Cape Town in 1999.

Speaking to SABC TV, the 61-cap South Africa international said: "From day one... the love and everything. I know sometimes, [the fans] were happy when we won games. Looking back, we let people down a few times. I don't know what to say to you guys, but I know the love and I appreciate wearing the [Bafana Bafana] jersey.

"And also to all the clubs that I have worked for or that gave me the opportunity to wear their jersey, I'm really grateful. It's been a long [journey]; a lot of ups and downs throughout my career, but like I said, I really appreciate your love, and thanks for everything. God bless you."

Pienaar won four major honours during his 18-year playing career, most famously lifting two Eredivisie titles with Ajax in 2002 and 2004.