South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell is in the spotlight again after reportedly confronting NRL 360 host and former soccer star Braith Anasta at a Sydney restaurant over perceived personal attacks.
Mitchell, 26, was dining at Chin Chin in the inner Sydney suburb of Surry Hills on Wednesday evening when he spotted Anasta, who was eating with her family at the same venue.
It is understood that Mitchell decided to express his frustrations over Fox Sports TV’s identity and player agent in person, feeling that Anasta is often too personal when expressing her opinions, particularly on the Rabbitohs.
The conversation – considered heated in nature – continued privately outside, but at no point did it become physical.
South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell (pictured with teammate Cody Walker) is in the spotlight again after reportedly clashing with NRL 360 host Braith Anasta.
At Mitchell’s request, the conversation with Anasta (pictured) continued in private – but did not get physical
Anasta and Mitchell were at Chin Chin, Surry Hills in Sydney, with their respective families on Wednesday evening when the confrontation took place.
It comes as the Rabbitohs have previously complained to Fox Sports bosses about the programme’s treatment of their star players, including Mitchell.
Speaking on NRL 360 recently, Anasta explained why Mitchell should not play as a fullback.
“You look at the big backs in our game…they’re there before the play happens,” he said.
“They anticipate it, they move before the ball goes, they are on their bike.
“Latrell… he gets caught in defense a lot, he’s very rarely on target at the last second when there’s a try or when he has the opportunity to save a try.
Mitchell (pictured with partner Brielle) completed some services from Anasta
“That’s where he needs to improve. It comes down to fitness…and being one of those high-energy full-backs. He plays differently.
Criticism of the Rabbitohs has been relentless in some quarters, with the club sitting 17th in the NRL standings.
They have also only won one game this season – against the Bulldogs in round four.
Mitchell also didn’t do himself – or his teammates – any favors when he was banned for three matches after driving his forearm into the face of Warriors pistol Shaun Johnson.
And at the end of April, coach Jason Demetriou was sacked after a meeting of the club’s board of directors was called to decide his fate.