Spencer Leniu has revealed his conversations with Latrell Mitchell ahead of next week’s must-win State of Origin clash, claiming the pair are ready to leave their issues behind.
Earlier in the year, Mitchell was extremely vocal regarding Leniu’s racial slur directed towards Ezra Mam, publicly condemning the actions of the Roosters front-rower.
Fast-forward to June 26 and the pair will be running out as teammates for NSW, with the Blues desperate to save the series after a devastating loss to Queensland in game one.
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Speaking to 9News Sydney at the start of camp, Leniu explained any potential dramas between the pair had already been resolved as they prepare to take on the Maroons.
“Me and Latrell are all good,” he said.
“He pulled me aside and spoke to me yesterday and that shows how good of a person he is. He pulled me aside and let me know to put our differences aside and rip in.
“He has my back and I have his and [we will] give it to some Queenslanders. It gave me a lot of confidence and relief that we’re all good.
“As soon as I cross this white line, if you’re beside me, I will protect you until we’re finished. Latrell is gonna be beside me … I will have his back.”
Leniu served an eight-game suspension for the incident in Las Vegas, before returning to club football with the Tricolours and forcing his way into Michael Maguire’s side.
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The 24-year-old was among the Blues’ best in the 38-10 defeat at Accor Stadium and Leniu believes his initial experience should hold him in good stead in game two.
“You dream about those moments,” he said.
“I was just trying to keep my emotions in check while I was out there.
“Before, we had to build relationships, but all those relationships are built now and we can just rip into training and not step on each other’s toes.”
Leniu has again been selected on the bench for NSW, with the likes of Mitchell and Cameron Murray among the changes to Maguire’s lineup.