Share

Harry happy with Pienaar

London - Harry Redknapp was pleased with Steven Pienaar's contribution on his debut at Newcastle, the Tottenham manager said on the club's website.

The midfielder completed his move from Everton last week, and was straight into the action - in doing so becoming the 600th player to represent Tottenham in the Football League and Premier League since they gained admission into the Football League in 1908.

Pienaar started on the left at St James' Park, after injury ruled out Benoit Assou-Ekotto, and Redknapp elected to switch Gareth Bale to left-back.

Pre-match plans had to be changed quickly though as Bale was forced off with a back problem in the 11th minute.

That meant a new left-sided team-mate for Pienaar in Sebastien Bassong, as the centre-back stepped in at left-back.

Pienaar lasted until the 84th minute when he went off with cramp. “I was very pleased with him, he's a good player,” said Harry.

“He got cramp in the last five minutes, but that can happen with nervous tension on your debut.

“He's at a new club and he's spent the week travelling back and forth. I threw him in at the deep end, really, and I was pleased with his performance.

“He's good footballer. I like people who can play and he's good on the ball, strong and I think he will do well for us,” he added.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE