LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Ben Hornby sheds light on Latrell Mitchell's mindset ahead of NRL comeback
Hornby reckons Latrell Mitchell has taken a leaf out of the book of wisdom from his recent suspension.
Souths' interim coach Ben Hornby claims Latrell Mitchell has undergone a transformation following his suspension and anticipates a revamped player when he takes the field this weekend.
The showdown against the Dragons on Saturday will mark the star fullback's return after serving a three-game ban for giving Shaun Johnson a knock to the noggin during the Rabbitohs' clash with the Warriors.
In the aftermath, Souths have experienced a whirlwind of changes off the field, including the axing of coach Jason Demetriou, with Hornby stepping up as the interim boss and enlisting Lewis Dodd to fill the halfback role starting in 2025.
The Bunnies have also endured a rough patch on the field, failing to secure a win and finding themselves at the foot of the NRL ladder.
Adding to their woes is a dire injury crisis, prompting the call-up of Queensland Cup player Gehamat Shibasaki on a game-by-game basis and the upcoming debut of Dion Teapua at halfback.
With the Rabbitohs missing a hefty chunk of players from their top-30 squad, Mitchell's comeback couldn't have come at a better time.
While Hornby acknowledges that Mitchell's return won't solve all their problems, he notes that the fullback is rejuvenated and in peak form.
"Having (Mitchell) back is a massive boost," Hornby remarked.
"Latrell is a key player for us, and his impact on the performance is undeniable."
In essence, Mitchell's return is heralded as a promising sign for Souths, potentially injecting much-needed firepower and flair into their lineup.