LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou has vehemently denied allegations of favoritism towards Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker following the shock departure of Sam Burgess from the club.
Burgess, who recently returned to the Rabbitohs as an assistant coach, reportedly expressed concerns about the preferential treatment given to Mitchell and Walker.
The situation unfolded on a chaotic Wednesday at the Rabbitohs' training center in Maroubra.
Demetriou was compelled to refute claims that Mitchell and Walker held significant influence over the club after Burgess resigned from his coaching position.
It is understood that players on the team also had grievances with Demetriou's handling of the star fullback and five-eighth.
In response to the allegations, Demetriou defended Mitchell's role within the team, stating, "Latrell is a big presence as Sam was when he was playing, but to say that he is dominating the club...
he's a part of the leadership team." The coach clearly sought to dispel any notion that Mitchell's influence extended beyond his role as a team leader.
The departure of Burgess has undoubtedly created a sense of turmoil within the Rabbitohs' camp.
As a former player and club legend, Burgess' resignation has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the dynamics within the team.
The specific nature of the preferential treatment concerns raised by Burgess remains undisclosed, leaving fans and analysts to speculate about the extent of the alleged favoritism.
Demetriou, who took over as head coach from Wayne Bennett this year, will now face the challenge of managing the fallout from Burgess' departure and addressing any underlying issues of favoritism within the team.
The coach's response suggests he is determined to maintain a fair and balanced environment for all players.
As the Rabbitohs continue their preparations for the upcoming season, the focus will shift to how the team responds to this upheaval.
The departure of a well-respected figure like Burgess could have a significant impact on team morale and dynamics.
It remains to be seen how the Rabbitohs will rally and move forward in the wake of these claims.