Everything may have gone as planned for Kaizer Chiefs this season as they remain at the summit of the Absa Premiership league table after the first round of fixtures being played. However, with notable changes being made to the squad, particularly in the strike force, will Baxter be forced to change his tactics?
With striker Kingston Nkhatha having left the club, Baxter would have to make do without his former first choice striker and select from David Zulu, Siphelele Mthembu, Katlego Mphela and Bernard Parker to spearhead the attacking line.
Baxter built his attacking force around Nkhatha, who was a striker moulded to harass defenders as opposed to being a prolific goal scoring number nine. This system worked very well for Baxter, however, Nkhatha’s inability to slot away easy goal scoring opportunities was his biggest downfall.
It was reported last week that Baxter had met up with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to discuss tactics. One could only but wonder what the conversation was all about, but it’s clear that Baxter does indeed mean business in that regard.
The short, quick passing style of play implemented by Baxter in this current Chiefs outfit can be likened to that of Wenger’s crisp, passing game crafted at the London based club. There is no doubt that Baxter’s European influence has greatly enhanced the Amakhosi style of play and it remains to be seen what tactics Baxter will use in the second half of the season.
Will Baxter’s tactical astuteness be his main weapon in the clubs pursuit of title success?
