Demetriou rejects Mitchell’s attempt to make a move…

South Sydney head coach Jason Demetriou has dismissed speculation about Rabbitohs’ star Latrell Mitchell playing in a position other than fullback in the upcoming 2024 season. Despite having a lineup filled with talented players last season, the South struggled to perform consistently, winning only three out of nine matches after their initial bye and ultimately missing the top eight.

Mitchell faced criticism for Souths’ failure to qualify for the September action, and his disciplinary issues resulted in suspension during a crucial phase of the season, specifically for elbowing Newcastle’s Tyson Frizell. The team’s proactive approach to the player market, including the signing of former Raiders player Jack Wighton, has heightened expectations and triggered discussions about Mitchell’s suitability for the fullback position.

However, as Mitchell intensified his pre-season preparations at Redfern, Demetriou took a decisive stance, expressing confidence in Mitchell’s continued role as the team’s fullback.

“I’ve had discussions with him, and the focus is on preparing him for a full season as a fullback, an experience he hasn’t had yet since joining the club,” the head coach stated, as quoted by The Daily Telegraph.

“He hasn’t engaged in training before early or mid-January since his arrival at the club. Having him undergo the current workload will set him up for a successful season. While opinions circulate in the media, witnessing Latrell’s daily contributions and understanding his impact on the team is crucial. People tend to forget that our season took a downturn when he suffered an injury.”

Demetriou, Mitchell, Wighton, and the entire Souths’ squad will kick off their comeback season by facing Manly in Las Vegas on Sunday, March 3.