Latrell Mitchell will regain the no.1 jersey at South Sydney on his return from injury, coach Wayne Bennett had assured.

Jye Gray has helped steer the Rabbitohs to a two-and-zip start to 2025 at fullback in Mitchell's absence, while the Origin and Kangaroos representative remains on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Once fit, Mitchell will slot straight back into the position, while Gray will be found a new task, Bennett told reporters on Friday.

The returning coach said Mitchell "could be back" to face arch-rivals the Roosters in three weeks' time.

"He will," Bennett stated when quizzed if the 27-year-old would take back the position.

"You can speculate as much as you like…every year he's been questioned about the fullback role.

"Fullback is his position. It's his number one position. He enjoys being there, and he'll be starting at fullback when he comes back."

"We'll find something for Jye," Bennett added, "we'll find a place for him".

Gray made 13 appearances in the no.1 jumper across the 2024 season - a year also significantly interrupted by injury for Mitchell.

The 21-year-old has made all but one of his first grade starts in the position.

Bennett added "we've got a new looking Latrell" in both fitness and outlook after a challenging 2024.

"I know who he is, and he knows who he is, and I enjoy him being here. I enjoy his company, and I know what a wonderful player he is," Bennett said.

Still chasing the league record for tries scored, the coach suggested Alex Johnston could return for next Thursday's clash with Penrith.

Cody Walker also has Bennett's blessing to carry on in his 37th year in 2026.

"I've had that conversation with him," Bennett said, "we can do it if they like (re-signing Walker) as long as they do it".

The Bunnies play Cronulla at Sharks Stadium on Saturday afternoon.