Everton goalkeeper, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Tim-Howard-c35095, believes that Steven Pienaar’s decision of retiring from international football was understandable, and hoped that the Toffees could benefit from it.
The South African footballer announced his decision of quitting from the international arena on Tuesday.
He cited the difficulties that he faced in coping with the packed schedule as the reason behind his decision, and also insisted that his age did not allow him to play both club and international football.
Pienaar has been criticized by many for preferring club duties over his country.
However, Howard spoke out in support of the 30-year old.
He underscored that the midfielder’s decision to limit his focus just to club football was understandable, and wants the fans to respect it.
“Each individual is different. Everyone has their own reasons for doing things, and it can be difficult sometimes,” he told the reporters.
Anyhow, the American International pointed out that Pienaar was an immensely popular figure back in his country – a fact which has amounted for all the furore and resentment amongst the fans.
Everton are set to benefit from the player’s decision. Having already secured the central stage in the team, the midfielder can now only focus on meeting his Goodison Park targets alone.
Howard admitted that quitting international football will allow the player to maintain a good fitness level, and will have a positive effect on his overall game.
“I’d say Steven’s form (for http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Everton-c13019) could improve as a result, but it can’t get any better can it? He has been brilliant every time he has stepped on to the field for Everton, stretching back many years,” he added.
“But hopefully now (his retirement) will help him stay fit, get fresher and give even more for the club.”
The http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Bongani-Khumalo-c7836 as the new skipper of the national team.
Pienaar, who was earlier set to miss up to six weeks in January in order to feature in the Africa Cup of Nations, will now report for duty at Goodison Park instead.
All in all, he has represented the Toffees in 154 matches in all competitions and scored 17 goals.
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