Son of Souths greatest legend apologizes for calling Latrell Mitchell a ‘cancer’ – as the beleaguered star divides fans with an Instagram post amid drama over his ‘special treatment’ from the coach
- Rod Churchill apologizes for Mitchell’s comments
- Churchill says he went ‘overboard’ and regrets it
- Mitchell impresses footy fans with social media posts
An ’embarrassed’ Rod Churchill has apologized for calling Rabbitohs superstar Latrell Mitchell a ‘cancer’ – as the embattled fullback divides fans with a post on social media.
The son of Souths greatest legend, Clive Churchill, sent an apology email to Souths bosses on Monday morning, after describing Mitchell as a ‘myth’, ‘overrated’ and a ‘disgrace’ to the club.
“I am ashamed that I have damaged my father’s reputation,” Churchill said News Corp.
“I can’t take back the things I said, but on reflection I regret all my comments.
“My reaction was out of frustration and passion for the Rabbitohs.
Rod Churchill has apologized for his scathing criticism of Latrell Mitchell
Souths players have reportedly pledged to decline the man-of-the-match award – presented by Churchill – if they win the grand final
“I went too far and I’m very sorry.”
Churchill added that he would also personally apologize for his scathing attack on Mitchell if given the chance.
“I have apologized to the club, Latrell and all the players,” he said.
“One day I’d like to contact Latrell and personally apologize.”
The apology comes after the astonishing outburst sparked a wave of support for Mitchell from both the club and the NRL.
“Our club has always had the utmost respect for the Churchill family and Clive’s tremendous contribution to the Rabbitohs,” said Blake Solly, CEO of Rabbitohs.
“But on these comments, I completely disagree with Rod. Latrell’s passion and dedication to the club is also beyond question.’
The Rabbitohs players also reportedly vowed to turn down the man-of-the-match Clive Churchill award presented by the son of the Bunnies icon if they won a grand final.
Meanwhile, Mitchell posted a message on social media that divided football fans.
The superstar fullback, who is currently serving a one game suspension, attends a bull rodeo in the remote community of Brewarrina after Souths had the final round.
Last week he was at the center of a scandal when Sam Burgess parted ways with the team after reportedly clashing with coach Jason Demetriou over what the club legend saw as special treatment given to Mitchell and fellow star Cody Walker .
On Sunday night, he posted a photo to Instagram of the rural location with the comment, “I don’t hear the noise here.”
Club legend Sam Burgess (left) parted ways with the Bunnies last week after reportedly clashing with head coach Jason Demetriou (right) over what he saw as special treatment for Mitchell and Cody Walker
While some followers thought it was right for Mitchell to take a break and escape the media frenzy, others felt he should be on deck supporting the Bunnies for their upcoming do-or-die grudge game against the Roosters .
“For every hater there are 20 true fans Trell! Don’t let this circus get the better of you! You are brilliant, you are strong and you are loved!’ wrote one supporter.
“I like your lineage, but you get more than 1 million a season to play football and take part of the salary cap in the meantime. If you don’t want to process the feedback, maybe retire full time,” one fan posted.
‘Yes, there he is again. All the boys from the south are training hard while Big Latrell is on vacation on his ranch. It seems there is no love for our fans or club,” another replied.
“Nice Trelly, but come back here for your fans and play some footy, which you paid a lot of money for,” a third posted.