Former Bafana Bafana captain Steven Pienaar finally revealed why he opted against returning to his home country for a fairytale ending to his professional footballing career.

The 34-year-old was linked with a move to South Africa’s top-flight for several weeks during the off-season, and was a hot topic for the football fraternity in Mzansi, as it looked like one of the most successful talents to emerge out of the land was set to make a return.

The Siya crew broke the news of ‘Schillo’s’ potential move to Orlando Pirates in June, after it was reported that the player had met with club chairman Irvin Khoza.

“Yeah, there was a lot going on. Obviously, I first met with Dr Irvin Khoza and I spoke to him. I told him clearly that if I got an opportunity to go back to England, that would be my first option. But if nothing came, then yeah, I would consider joining Orlando Pirates,” Pienaar revealed to the Siya crew.

“I told him that I was just going to wait because the transfer window was supposed to close on 31 August. From South Africa, I went back to Holland to train with the people that I normally train with and who look after my injuries and stuff, just to keep fit.

“When I got the call to come and train with Sunderland, basically that was when my decision was made up,” he added.

To read the full exclusive interview with Steven Pienaar, check out this week’s edition of Soccer Laduma, issue number 990.