Coach Stuart Baxter returned from the offseason break last weekend and resumed his role of leading The Glamour Boys into the future. Baxter took his troops through their paces from Monday, 23rd of June 2014. The Chiefs mentor stated his desire to get going with the business of contesting for the honours that eluded his team in the last season. Chiefs were unlucky to finish second in the Premier Soccer League and reached the semifinals of all the Cup competitions during the 2013/14 season.

kaizerchiefs.com interviewed Baxter after the training session on Thursday,

How are you Coach, and how was the break?

“The break, what break?” (chuckling). “I was back at home (Sweden) with my family and enjoyed a bit of a break. I enjoyed some time resting and reunited with my golden retriever, Chester, for the first time in one and half years. Remarkably, Chester recognised my whistle and came running to me and that made me feel good to know that at least one of my players plays to the whistle (still chuckling). It was really great to be back home.” said Baxter after returning from his home, Helsingborg, a town and the seat of Helsingborg Municipality, Skåne County, Sweden.

How are the guys looking like after the break and a disappointing past season?

“The lads are in the same mood that saw them win the double in 2013. They know what is expected this season following a barren but not so discouraging 2013/14 season. Last season didn’t work out as planned but we have a chance to make amends this season. They look ok and confident to be up to the task.” said Baxter.

Their shape?

“The boys are looking in good shape. None of them have picked up weight, for example. Some of the guys look really sharp and that makes me feel good to have the type of players who take their job seriously. They really look good. Some of course, are naturally fit.” Said Baxter.

Did you have a chat about the way forward from the last time when you went to the break?

“Yes, we did have a chat. We had some form of introductions and a light heart to heart talk about the road ahead. We looked at the Manchester City case study of how they conquered the Premiership in 2012, losing it in 2013 and then winning it again in 2014, seesaw like scenario. I referred the players to the Manchester City players’ interview after lifting their Championship trophy. Vincent Kompany said, “We won it, lost it and this time wanted it badly and took our chance after believing in our way. Now we can go on and on.” Pablo Javier Zabaleta Girod said, “The key was hard work and belief. We wanted more and refused to accept second.” And Samir Nasri said, “We put the egos aside and enjoyed doing it together.”