Former Bafana Bafana captain Steven Pienaar has declared himself fully fit and ready for the new season as he looks to put months of disappointment behind him.
The 32-year-old missed the final three months of the last English Premiership campaign, bar a 14-minute cameo appearance in the2-0 victory over Hull City that brought Everton's season to a close.
But after a bit of rest and a good pre-season, which included 45 minutes on Sunday in the 1-1 draw with Portuguese side FC Porto, Pienaar says he can't wait to get back to playing in the Premiership this season, in which he will be South Africa's only representative.
"For me it's just nice to be back playing again," he said. "It's something I've been looking forward to for the whole summer holidays. I've pushed myself to get fit and my main aim is to try to stay fit and take it from there."
This will be a big season for Everton following their qualification for the Europa League and the fact they have splashed out £28-million to sign Belgian international Romelu Lukaku on a permanent basis, nearly doubling their club record transfer.
If fit, Pienaar will play a key role for manager Roberto Martinez, who knows they will need a big squad to compete on all fronts.
Pienaar has made 212 appearances and scored 24 goals since first joining Everton in 2007.
He also spent 18 months at Tottenham Hotspur.
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