Latrell Mitchell refusing to be bound by criticism that he can’t play fullback for South Sydney

If we've learned anything about Latrell Mitchell in recent months, it’s that the South Sydney star isn’t afraid to forge his own path. Now he wants to do the same as South Sydney’s fullback.

The NRL All Stars arrive on the Gold Coast. Left to right, James Roberts, Latrell Mitchell and Wade Graham. Picture Glenn Hampson

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Latrell Mitchell says he wants to “change the game” at fullback by emulating Maroons legend Greg Inglis.

Inglis has been mentoring Mitchell since the 22-year-old signed with South Sydney to help him transition from centre to fullback.

Pint-sized former Cowboys star Matt Bowen is tutoring Mitchell during the Indigenous All Stars camp ahead of their clash with the Maori All Stars on the Gold Coast this week.

However, the 193cm, 102kg Mitchell more closely resembles the 192cm Inglis and is hoping to emulate the Queensland great’s barnstorming style of football.

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Mitchell moved to South Sydney to take a new direction. Photo: Brett Costello

Inglis was one of the most devastating footballers during his career. Like Mitchell, he switched from centre to fullback at Souths in 2012.

Inglis finished the season with 12 tries and ran for 4626 metres at an average of 210m per game.

The following year, he was named the Dally M Fullback of the Year.

“Greg (Inglis) changed the game for big fullbacks and that’s where I’m at,” Mitchell said.

“I’m not a nippy little fullback.

“There’s different fullbacks. You have Teddy (James Tedesco), there’s Billy Slater. You’ve got all these nippy little fellas. I have to be smart and know where to position myself.

“For me, I just want to change the game for big fullbacks out there.”

Greg Inglis remains a huge and present influence. Photo: Brett Costello

Mitchell has sought out Inglis’ advice since signing with South Sydney in January to help smooth his transition from centre.

He admits he still has some improvement and will use the next four weeks to improve his fitness and positional plays ahead of Round 1.

“At training, (Inglis) is just helping me with my position so it’s been good,” Mitchell said. “He’s just said to play your own game. We’re all individuals, and with our own talents.

“I just need to be in position earlier and make the job easier. I know for Teddy and that they can get around corners, and that’s how they are and that’s how they’ve been playing it for years.”

James Roberts, Mitchell and Wade Graham with the All-Stars jersey. Photo: Glenn Hampson

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Mitchell is expected to wear the No.1 jersey for the first time at the top level when he runs on for the Indigenous side at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday night.

He revealed he was now in a much better headspace since joining the Rabbitohs and would use the All Stars to kick off his year.

“I’m just happy,” he said. “I’m in a good environment now.

“Obviously I went through a lot of stuff. Now I’ve got good people around me and now I’ve got a good team around me.

“I love these weeks (All Stars) because it kicks off my season (in a) happy (way).”