LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Latrell Mitchell, the South Sydney Rabbitohs fullback, has faced heavy criticism from Rodney Churchill, the son of rugby league legend Clive Churchill.
Churchill unleashed a scathing attack on Mitchell, labeling him "an embarrassment to the No.1 jersey." Mitchell's lackluster performances in recent weeks have come under fire, with his display against Newcastle drawing particular scrutiny.
During a segment on NRL 360, Braith Anasta pointed out several instances where Mitchell failed to be in the right position, the most notable being when the Rabbitohs made a break and he was seen casually walking back down the field.
Mitchell's troubles were compounded by a one-game suspension for elbowing Tyson Frizell, which means he will miss the final-round blockbuster against the Roosters.
Rodney Churchill did not hold back in his assessment of Mitchell's performance at South Sydney, stating, "If you look at it objectively, he's been very disappointing and just hasn't delivered." Churchill went on to question Mitchell's commitment and suggested he may be overrated, considering his status as a marquee player who hasn't stepped up when needed.
Churchill made it clear that his comments were driven by his love for the club, where his father won ten premierships.
He also expressed his frustration with the club's treatment of Sam Burgess, who recently left his role as assistant coach due to reported concerns about preferential treatment given to Mitchell and Cody Walker.
Mitchell will undoubtedly face pressure to prove his worth and silence his critics in the coming weeks.