Baines has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks.
“It’s not up to me. It’s up to the club to keep their best players but hopefully he’ll stay and so will the rest of the guys. It will be important for the team,” said Pienaar.
“We had a good understanding in the last couple of seasons so, if he stays, it will just make everyone happy as well because we know how important he is to the entire team.
“He can score goals from set pieces and it’s not just me who benefits from playing alongside him. He’s a vital player for the club – everyone knows it from the manager to the supporters. Let’s hope and see if we can hold on to him.”
