Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter has detailed how he transformed Willard Katsande from a fiery player into a composed, brave warrior and team leader.
Katsande, nicknamed ‘Salt and Vinegar’, was renowned for his tough tackles and aggressive playing style. The former Zimbabwean international worked closely with Baxter during the Scotsman’s highly successful stint as Amakhosi head coach between 2012 and 2015.
Baxter’s return to the club between June 2021 to April 2022 coincided with Katsande’s departure in July 2021, when the ex-midfielder joined Sekhukhune United.
Under Baxter, Willard Katsande won key awards, accounting for the 2013/14 season. Kaizer Chiefs awards. He won Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, and Fan Player of the Season. During that time, the Glamour Boys secured two Betway Premiership titles [2012/13 and 2014/15] and both the Nedbank Cup and MTN8 trophies.
WHAT STUART BAXTER SAID ABOUT WILLARD KATSANDE
Baxter revealed to FARPost how he turned Katsande into a cornerstone at Chiefs. The 72-year-old said he encouraged Katsande to tone down his aggression and focus on smart playing. This helped Katsande become a key player for Chiefs.
“He was the toughest player I had ever seen in the team, and he was kicking people, making those hard and sometimes reckless tackles even in training,” said Baxter in an interview with FARPost.
“To my surprise, off the field, Willard was the nicest person you would ever meet. It was a contrast – him on the field and him outside of the pitch. So I had a long chat with him and told him that he could be the best player at Kaizer Chiefs if he toned it down a bit.
“As a defensive midfielder, he believed in being tough. But I wanted him to be smart, and show the intelligent part of himself so that he could help the team without getting cautioned. It was a process that was worth it. And look what he turned out to be – a Kaizer Chiefs legend. He is a good example to others now.”
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