Steven Pienaar has returned to Everton on loan from Tottenham until the end of the season in a late transfer deadline day deal.

The South African arrived at Spurs from Goodison Park last January but has failed to win a regular place in Harry Redknapp'sfirst-team.

Pienaar has made just two Premier League appearances for the North Londoners this season, both of which came off the bench.

The Toffees confirmed the deal on Tuesday night, shortly after striker Louis Saha moved in the opposite direction on a permanent deal.

Pienaar revealed on his official Twitter account Everton only just managed to push the deal through before the 11pm deadline on Tuesday.

He said: "Happy days. Look like we just beat the clock. Holding thumbs for next few hours."

Successful

Pienaar previously spent three-and-a-half seasons at Everton after joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2007.

After a successful season on loan, the Toffees signed Pienaar on a three-year deal in 2008.

He racked up over 100 appearances during his first stint on Merseyside, establishing himself as a fans' favourite.

The signing caps a busy transfer window for David Moyes, who also captured Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic on deadline day.

His other January acquisitions were Manchester United's Darron Gibson, who scored the winner that downed Premier League leaders Manchester City on Tuesday night, and USA captain Landon Donovan on loan.