Goal to be No.1 remains in sight for Latrell after re-signing

Latrell Mitchell has backed himself to become the game's leading fullback over the next three years after extending his stay at South Sydney on the eve of their 2021 campaign.

The Rabbitohs confirmed Mitchell's retention for an additional two years on Monday in a boost leading into round one when they take on premiers Melbourne at AAMI Park on March 11.

After making a successful return in the All Stars fixture, Mitchell declared he had unfinished business at the club and in the game after his season was cut short last year due to a hamstring injury.

The two-time premiership winner spoke of his willingness to back himself with a shorter deal at Redfern and continue to improve in the No.1 jersey.

"I just thought it [contract length] was suitable for now," Mitchell said, moments after announcing the extension.

"I thought for myself I could set another goal for a longer contract after that. I've got a lot of stuff to do in the next two years.

"[The fullback switch] has been awesome for me, confidence-wise.

"There's a goal, everyone wants to be the best player. I want to be the best player in the position in the team and do my role.

"It's going to take time. I was never a centre and I was the best centre in the game [at the Roosters].

"The sky is the limit. I just have to stay fit, work on myself and my energy."

Mitchell added Wayne Bennett's decision to give away the Queensland Maroons coaching gig after returning to the State of Origin arena last year was a strong sign of the coach's commitment in his final season at the club.

The 71-year-old is yet to confirm his next steps in the game but Mitchell said he was happy to play under assistant coach Jason Demetriou in the future.

"Wayne's seen so many fullbacks in his time and for him to have confidence in me and be at the back for his coaching it gives me a sense of belief to do my role and play a part in this team," Mitchell said.

"Jase has showed some really good leadership qualities, obviously under Wayne he's learned a lot and it will be exciting for himself in the coming years.

"Jase has been good for me, the club and it's exciting."

Still only 23, Mitchell has racked up 110 first-grade games since his debut as a teenager with the Roosters in 2016.

His switch to the arch rivals South Sydney 12 months ago was among one of the biggest stories of the year.

"It's perfect here," Mitchell said. "We're in the heart of Redfern and I love training every day with these fellas.

"It's a special club and a special group of players and it means a lot to me and my family to represent South Sydney."

Rabbitohs head of football Mark Ellison believes Mitchell's contract extension is critical in his development. 

"Everyone recognises the natural talent that Latrell has, however not everyone gets to see the hard work he puts into his game at training and in the gym," Ellison said.

"We saw him apply himself to learning to play fullback at the top level and we’ve seen him work hard to rehabilitate his hamstring injury as well.

"He is a community leader amongst Indigenous people and he has a strong voice on issues that affect us all."