‘The next Henrik Larsson’ – Luke Baartman backed to become Kaizer Chiefs’ goal machine

Former Cape Town Spurs coach Sean Connor believes Kaizer Chiefs forward Luke Baartman has the qualities to become one of South Africa’s top strikers, comparing the young attacker’s style to legendary former Manchester United and Barcelona forward Henrik Larsson.

Connor, who handed Baartman his senior professional debut at Cape Town Spurs, says he identified the striker’s potential long before he stepped into first-team football, praising his movement, aggression and instinctive finishing.

The Irish coach revealed that Baartman’s performances at youth level immediately stood out, particularly his ability to find the back of the net with natural ease.

“I remember watching Luke Baartman every day with the Cape Town Spurs youth team,” Connor said.

“I loved his movement and his aggression. Then I went to watch him play for the DDC team, and the boy could finish. That’s when I realised he was a natural finisher.”

Connor sees shades of Barcelona and Manchester United legend

Connor believes Baartman’s intelligent movement and attacking instincts are similar to those displayed by Larsson, who enjoyed a celebrated career with clubs including Celtic, Barcelona and Manchester United.

The former Spurs coach said he encouraged Baartman to study the Swedish striker’s game because he saw similarities in their approach inside the penalty area.

“When I brought him into the first team, I even said to Luke, ‘Go and Google Henrik Larsson because I think you can play that type of striker.’”

Connor admitted that Baartman had to wait for his opportunity, with the youngster initially considered too inexperienced for senior football.

“I had spoken to Shaun Bartlett before about giving Luke an opportunity, but at that stage he probably felt Luke was still a bit too young,” he said.

However, when Connor was placed in charge temporarily, he immediately promoted Baartman into first-team training and was impressed by how confidently the teenager adapted.

“Then, when I was given the temporary reins, the very first thing I did was bring Luke into first-team training.”

“What convinced me even more was that he wasn’t timid. He was doing the same things I’d seen him do with the youth team,” he added.

Baartman ready to make his mark at Kaizer Chiefs

Baartman joined Kaizer Chiefs last season as part of the club’s efforts to strengthen their attacking options but endured a limited first campaign, featuring only a few times as he adjusted to life at one of Africa’s biggest clubs.

The 20-year-old, however, has started the new season with renewed confidence, producing a standout display in Chiefs’ 1-0 victory over Kruger United.

His performance earned him the Man of the Match award and has increased expectations around his role at Amakhosi, with supporters hoping he can develop into a reliable source of goals.