Willard Katsande has penned a heartfelt letter to Kaizer Chiefs following Amakhosi's announcement that he will leave the club after 10 years.
Katsande headlined a list of seven players who will exit Naturena during this window, which includes the likes of Kgotso Moleko, Philani Zulu and Brylon Pietersen, while Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya, Lazarous Kambole and Yagan Sasman will all be placed on the transfer list.
The Zimbabwe international joined Amakhosi from Ajax Cape Town in 2011 and holds the record of being the most capped foreigner after playing 326 official matches for Chiefs.
Katsande has since taken to social media to send a heartfelt message to Amakhosi and their supporters after the club confirmed his departure after a 10-year stint with the Soweto giants.
"It is with a heavy heart that I must leave my beloved Kaizer Chiefs family," he said. "I am honoured and eternally grateful to the chairman of the club, Mr Kaizer Motaung, for granting me the opportunity to represent this great institution over the last decade.
"To the peace-loving fans of Chiefs, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your support and encouragement over the years. You have consistently been the 12th man lifting our spirits, during the good times and the difficult phases.
"I trust that I represented the badge and brand with the respect and dignity that it deserves. 'Respect the badge in the front and the faithful will forever remember the name at the back.
"I am blessed beyond imagination, having represented my childhood club for over 320 games, lifted four trophies and participated in the Champions League. Kaizer Chiefs is my family and will always be in my heart.
"The journey continues and the next chapter of my life commences. To my wonderful children, thank you for accepting Kaizer Chiefs as an integral part of our lives. Love and Peace. Amakhosi for life - Willard 'Salt and Vinegar' Katsande.
