Da Cruz urges Chiefs youngster Luke Baartman to stay focused as role grows

Fernando da Cruz says Luke Baartman’s willingness to listen and adapt will be crucial as the Kaizer Chiefs youngster enjoys a more prominent role at the start of the new season.

Baartman has already started three matches this campaign and played 240 minutes, surpassing the total amount of football he managed throughout his first season with the club.

The 20-year-old made seven appearances last term but was largely used from the bench, starting only once. His total playing time was limited to 170 minutes.

Da Cruz highlighted Baartman’s technical ability and attacking qualities after Kaizer Chiefs’ 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium on Wednesday.

“He is a player with good technical qualities,” said Da Cruz.

“He is also a player with good explosivity in his game when he plays football.

“And he is a young player, and for the moment he listens.

“He listens to what the coach asks of him, and it’s very important for him.

“What is most important for a young player is to listen to what the coach wants of him.

“Sometimes young players think that they are experienced players, and for the moment, Luke is focused.

“He listens to what the coach expects of him.

“I know that he cannot have this level all season; sometimes he will need to recover, and we will need to support him in the different time of the season,” added Da Cruz.

The Chiefs coach also addressed the question of where Baartman is best suited to play, saying the demands of modern football mean young players increasingly need to operate in more than one position.

“Today, in modern football, the notion of position is difficult because players can play in different positions.

“And for a young player like Luke Baartman, it is important to give him different tools to be able to play in different positions.

“What is important for him is to read the game. For example, when he receives the ball, he needs to understand what he needs to do now and why in his situation,” explained the Frenchman.

Da Cruz’s comments underline the progress Baartman has made in terms of involvement and responsibility compared with last season. His three starts have already given him significantly more competitive playing time than he received during his entire first campaign with Chiefs.

The coach also warned that maintaining his current level across a full season will require careful management. Baartman may need periods of recovery, with the technical staff prepared to support him as the campaign develops.

For now, Da Cruz believes the midfielder’s attitude is helping him make the most of his opportunities. The coach’s emphasis is not only on Baartman’s technical and explosive qualities, but also on his ability to understand instructions, interpret situations and respond to the changing demands of a match.

That ability to learn, according to Da Cruz, will be central to Baartman’s continued development as he looks to establish himself more firmly in the Chiefs team.