Kaizer Chiefs Coach Introduces Ethan Chislett to Fans at FNB Stadium During Debut Match Against Stellenbosch FC and Benedict Vilakazi Praises His Midfield Potential

When the starting XI dropped ahead of Kaizer Chiefs’ clash with Stellenbosch FC at the FNB Stadium, there was one name supporters had been waiting months to see.

Ethan Chislett, signed back in July, finally made his debut in the famous gold and black — wearing jersey number 23 — in the 2-1 defeat.

It might not have been the result Amakhosi wanted, but the bigger story was the introduction of a player many believe could reshape the midfield.

And one voice in particular wasted no time weighing in.

Benedict Vilakazi Says Chiefs Have Something Different

Former Orlando Pirates star and respected pundit Benedict Vilakazi was watching closely.

Known for his creativity during his playing days, Vilakazi understands the difference between an ordinary midfielder and one who can change games.

Chislett featured as a number 10 for about 70 minutes, but Vilakazi doesn’t see him as a traditional attacking midfielder.

Instead, he believes Chiefs may have stumbled upon something more dynamic — a roaming number eight who can drift forward, create, and still influence the engine room.

According to Vilakazi, Chislett is not the kind of number eight who sits deep and shields the defence.

He’s the type who links play, arrives late in the box, and forces goalkeepers into action — something he nearly did against Stellenbosch when he tested Sage Stephens from range.

Not Your Typical Number 8

In South African football, the number eight role has often been about balance — part ball-winner, part distributor.

But the modern game is evolving. Across the globe, clubs are looking for midfielders who can press high, create overloads, and still chip in with goals.

That’s where Chislett might fit in. He’s comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, he’s tidy in tight spaces, and he doesn’t shy away from taking a shot.

For a Chiefs side that has struggled at times to break down compact defences in the Betway Premiership, that unpredictability could prove vital.

From England’s Lower Leagues to Naturena

Chislett’s journey hasn’t been glamorous — but it’s been steady.

Born in Durban, he carved out his professional career in England’s lower divisions.

At Aldershot Town, he managed nine goals in 36 appearances, showing early promise as an attacking presence.

A move to AFC Wimbledon followed, where he featured over 130 times and contributed 16 goals along with several assists.

His most recent stop before returning to South Africa was Port Vale, where he scored 15 goals in 82 outings.

Those numbers don’t scream superstar, but they reflect consistency and versatility — traits Chiefs have badly needed in recent seasons.

It’s also worth noting that adapting from English League One intensity to the tactical rhythm of the PSL isn’t instant.

Match sharpness, travel demands, and climate all play a role.

Derby Pressure Is Coming Fast

There won’t be much time for easing in.

Chiefs return to training with one eye firmly fixed on the first Soweto derby of the season.

Their arch-rivals Orlando Pirates are next up at the FNB Stadium, with kickoff set for 15:30 on Saturday.

If Chislett thought his debut was big, the derby atmosphere will be another level entirely.

More than 80,000 fans, fierce rivalry, and zero margin for error — that’s baptism by fire.

Chiefs’ Midfield Puzzle Still Needs Solving

Kaizer Chiefs have been rebuilding, reshuffling, and searching for the right midfield formula for a few seasons now.

Injuries, inconsistency, and tactical changes have made it difficult to settle on a core trio.

If Vilakazi’s instincts are right, Chislett could become that connective piece — someone who links defence to attack without being locked into a rigid position.

Modern football rewards intelligence and movement, and Chiefs supporters will hope he brings both.

What’s Next

The immediate focus is the derby, but beyond that, Chiefs need momentum in the league.

Consistency will determine whether Chislett becomes a regular starter or remains a rotational option.