Sports Reporter
Willard Katsande is now set to complete a decade of service at South African Premiership giants Kaizer Chiefs after the gritty midfielder had his contract extended by yet another year.
The former Zimbabwe captain’s contract with Chiefs was due to expire this June.
But reports from South Africa indicate that Katsande is one of three key veterans of the game who have been handed contract extensions by Chiefs, who are looking to end a long dry spell without winning the league championship.
The contract extension also enhances Katsande’s legendary status at Amakhosi as he joins an elite group that includes countryman Tinashe Nengomasha who had a distinguished career with the club spanning just over a decade.
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Katsande has also been handed the captaincy of Chiefs which he has re-paid with a stand-out season in a defensive midfield role that has ensured that the Soweto giants remain at the top of the log standings.
The run-away Absa Premiership leaders also extended the contract veteran former Bafana Bafana international Bernard Parker.
The duo of Katsande and Parker have received one-year extensions to keep them at the club until June 2021, which will mean a decade of service for both at the Naturena.
Parker joined Chiefs in 2011 and is closing in on 300 appearances, having helped the side to two league titles already, and on course for a third this season.
Katsande also arrived ahead of the 2011/12 season, and was touted at the time as something of a surprise capture from Ajax Cape Town, but has proven his worth.
Goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has signed a new two-year contract as he continues to keep Itumeleng Khune on the bench. The Nigeria international joined Chiefs from Chippa United in January 2019 as injury cover for Khune, but has taken over as the leading glove-man.
Chiefs have also confirmed that goalkeeper coach Lee Baxter, son of former Chiefs and Bafana Bafana coach Stuart, has extended his stay at the club until June 2022. – Supersport.com/Sports Reporter