Tottenham midfielder Steven Pienaar cannot hide his frustration over being sidelined so far this season.

The South Africa midfielder is determined to prove his worth.

"It's depressing. The team is playing well and getting results, which is satisfying," he said.

"But if you're not playing you don't have a hand in helping the team and as a player you always want to be part of a team that's doing well. If you're not part of it, it's like getting your money without doing anything.

"But I will definitely get my chance. There are a lot of games this season and you just have to be patient. There's no way the team will perform at this level for the whole season. You just have to wait.

"You don't wish anyone to get injured, so I'll just have to wait for my chance and I believe it will come. The coaching staff have told me I have to get fit, that I've been unlucky with injuries. They believe in me and I believe in myself.

"The guys are in good form and we're on a good run. When you're injured you have to keep fighting and working hard and be patient. When your opportunity does come you have to prove yourself again and make sure you hold onto your place."