South Sydney star Latrell Mitchell is optimistic about his recovery from a back injury and is aiming to return to play for the Rabbitohs this week ahead of a crucial State of Origin series for New South Wales. Speaking on Fox League’s Sunday night program, Mitchell revealed he is expected to resume training on Monday as he pushes to be available for Thursday’s NRL clash against the Parramatta Eels.

Mitchell’s potential comeback would provide a timely boost for both his club and the NSW Blues, who suffered a disappointing performance in the second game of the Origin series. The 24-year-old indicated that his back injury, initially caused by a disc issue requiring an injection, has since eased. He cited pilates as part of his rehabilitation and expressed eagerness to return to the field pending clearance from coach Wayne Bennett.

Meanwhile, further developments emerged regarding the future leadership of the NSW Blues. Former Origin player and broadcaster Matthew Johns indicated a willingness to assist the team next season, contingent on his brother Andrew Johns being appointed as head coach. With incumbent coach Laurie Daley expected to step down after the series this year, the Blues are likely to enter a coaching recruitment phase.

Rumors have circulated that Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary may eventually assume the NSW role, possibly following his departure from the Panthers at the end of next season. Against this backdrop, the Johns brothers’ involvement has attracted attention, with Matthew Johns stating he would support Andrew Johns if he took the lead. “If Joey does it, I will help Joey out. That is it. Ask Andrew. Andrew is the man,” Matthew said.

Referring back to the Blues’ recent Origin defeat, Mitchell criticized the team’s interchange strategy, particularly in relation to the deployment of key forwards Payne Haas and Mitch Barnett and the limited use of hooker Api Koroisau. He suggested that quicker rotations of the props might have been beneficial and highlighted Koroisau’s creative potential, noting the defensive work rate of starting hooker Jake Robson.

As Mitchell awaits the outcome of training assessments, his return could represent a significant factor in the Blues’ efforts to regain momentum in this year’s Origin series.