Pienaar was a little surprised to feature against Middlesbrough, but is pleased to be working under his old boss from their Everton days.
Sunderland’s Steven Pienaar in action with Middlesbrough’s Christian Stuani
Sunderland midfielder Steven Pienaar said he didn’t expect to be thrown in at the deep end and make his debut in a derby clash against Middlesbrough at the weekend.
Pienaar replaced John O’Shea towards the end of the first half as Sunderland tried to turn around a two-goal deficit but only managed to strike once, meaning they are without a point from their opening two Premier League games.
The South African – who also featured in the EFL Cup win over Shrewsbury Town – was reunited with David Moyes this summer after an injury-hit couple of years at Everton and seems happy to be back working under the Scot.
Sunderland’s Steven Pienaar looks dejected
He’s quoted in the Sunderland Echo, saying: “To work with him again is good, it is always good to work under someone you have known so long.
“I didn’t expect it to happen so quick but I have been working hard to get up to speed.
“For me to come on in the derby, it is always good to get a feel of the club, the supporters and the stadium.”
Sunderland manager David Moyes
Both Pienaar and Sunderland will be hoping his fitness won’t be so much of an issue this season. The Black Cats have been hit by several problems at the start of this season while Pienaar will want to get a good proportion of games under his belt this term.
He is a player with pretty good technical ability when fit and can provide little moments of quality that can aid the Black Cats consolidate their place in the top flight.
It’s also good for Moyes to have a player in his ranks that he has worked with previously. Given the Scot is in the very early days of his tenure at the Stadium of Light, having players who know exactly what he requires can be of help to everyone in and around the first team.
Sunderland’s Steven Pienaar in action with Middlesbrough’s Christian Stuani
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