Steven Pienaar has thanked the Everton fans for the support that they have shown him during his two spells at the club.

The South African midfielder spent four years at Goodison Park before opting to join Tottenham Hotspur in January 2011.

However, just one year later he returned to Merseyside on a six-month loan deal, which was concluded on Sunday afternoon.

While taking the time to praise the club's supporters, Pienaar refused to rule out the possibility of rejoining the Toffees on a permanent basis.

"The first time I left I didn't say goodbye, this time around it's a bit sad. I just want to say thanks for the support from day one. I really appreciate it," he told the club's official website.

"It means a lot to me, this club. Let's just see what will happen in the summer."

Pienaar scored four goals for David Moyes's side in 14 outings this season.