The influence of former Black Leopards striker Kingston Nkata could prove crucial, according to Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter, when Amakhosi look to consolidate their lead at the top of the Premiership table this weekend.

Chiefs take on Leopards at FNB Stadium on Saturday evening.

Nkatha joined Chiefs in the off-season on a three-year deal after several outstanding performances caught Baxter's eye.

"Kingston has brought us a physical edge, maybe that we didn't have," Baxter said ahead of the weekend fixtures.

"I think he has given us that pressure where we've been trying to play and play well.

"Sometimes, with Kingston, we can play forward earlier and he will make something out of it, so he gives us an extra type of striker and I'm pleased with his progress."

Chiefs have made a solid start to their league campaign after storming to a 6-0 win over Amazulu in their opening fixture last month and settling at the top of the standings after three rounds with seven points.

Leopards, meanwhile, have surprised with their start and they lie fifth, two points behind Amakhosi.

Following Chiefs' goalless draw against Free State Stars in their last outing, Baxter was encouraged by the quality of outfits taking part in South Africa's top tier and warned that league minnows could be competing for top honours at the end of the campaign.

“One of the things I have noticed since returning to South Africa is that, compared to the last time I was here with Bafana Bafana, most PSL teams, including Black Leopards, now aspire to be on top," Baxter said.

"They are pushing themselves a little bit more, and playing against a team that is currently on top, they will be more motivated."

Chiefs striker Lehlohonolo Majoro believed the Soweto outfit would have to be at their best if they wanted to overcome the visitors.

"The Leopards game is one of those important games that we must win," Majoro said.

"Leopards have been doing well, but every game is different. We can't say we've beaten Amazulu 6-0 so therefore we'll beat Leopards.

"We have to go there, stick to our plans and do what we went there for… to collect three points."

Elsewhere on Saturday, Platinum Stars host defending champions Orlando Pirates in Rustenburg, SuperSport United will look to get their season back on track when they take on Amazulu in Polokwane, and Golden Arrows square off against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

On Sunday, Bloemfontein Celtic are at home to Ajax Cape Town, while Chippa United host Wits University at Athlone Stadium.