Luke Baartman: Kaizer Chiefs Star Opens Up on His Preferred Position After Impressive Season Start

• Kaizer Chiefs youngster Luke Baartman has already surpassed his entire appearance tally from last season within the opening two months of 2026/27
• The 20-year-old versatile attacker has been deployed across multiple positions by head coach Fernando Da Cruz this campaign
• Baartman spoke about his positional preference and what he believes is key to earning further national-team recognition

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman has opened up about the position he considers his best, following an encouraging opening to the current Betway Premiership season under head coach Fernando Da Cruz.

Baartman made the remarks during the South Africa Under-23 media day held at Clapham High School in Queenswood, Pretoria, where he reflected on his growing role at Amakhosi and the opportunities Da Cruz has provided.

Baartman Hits the Ground Running at Chiefs

The 20-year-old joined Chiefs on a free transfer from Cape Town Spurs after the club was relegated to the ABC Motsepe League. His debut campaign at Naturena was a difficult one, limited to just seven appearances throughout the 2025/26 season. That figure has already been eclipsed in the 2026/27 campaign, with Baartman now having made eight appearances across all competitions, including one goal.

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Da Cruz's appointment during the off-season appears to have coincided with a notable upturn in fortunes for the youngster, who has become a regular starter in the league.

Baartman Identifies Number Nine as His Best Role

The versatility Baartman developed during his time at Cape Town Spurs has made him a useful option across the frontline for Chiefs. This season, he has operated on both wings, in the number 10 position, and as a false nine.

Despite his adaptability, Baartman was clear about where he feels most effective: the traditional centre-forward role is his preferred position, with the false nine his second choice.

He described his consistent league involvement as a meaningful step in his development, adding that maintaining his work rate and securing regular game time will be central to his ambitions of earning further recognition with South Africa's Under-23 side.

Source: Briefly News