Mitchell backs centre dilemma to bring out best in Kangaroos

With the World Cup knockout rounds taking shape, Kangaroos centre Latrell Mitchell believes coach Mal Meninga's selection headache is now Australia will reach new heights in the finals.

While much of the external focus might lie on the halves race between Nathan Cleary, Daly Cherry-Evans and Cameron Munster, the fight for spots in the outside backs has also intensified ahead of Australia's quarterfinal against Lebanon.

With Mitchell, Valentine Homes, Matt Burton and Jack Wighton all handed a chance to stake their claim for the position throughout the Kangaroos first three rounds, Meninga’s formidable centre lineup even has the 25-year-old South Sydney star finding himself among a green and gold shootout.

“I know Mal has a bit of a headache but a good headache as well,” Mitchell told the media following Australia’s 66-6 win over Italy.

“It’s a shootout between a lot of us and we all compete for spots.

The best thing about being in this team is that you’re around people that want to better themselves and strive for greatness.

Kangaroos centre Latrell Mitchell

“I definitely believe the coaching staff will put the best foot forward to win the World Cup.”

After chalking up five tries, 11 tackle breaks, five linebreaks and running for 314 metres on the wing against Scotland and Italy, Mitchell also believes his South Sydney teammate Campbell Graham could be a new addition to Meninga’s centre dilemma.

“He (Graham) has settled in well. You see the character in him, he’s the player you want to play with,” Mitchell said.

“He shows up for you and I love him to death. Any time he puts a jersey on next to me I know what I’m going to get out of him.”

“He’s a beast. He loves the game of rugby league.

“I’m also feeling a heap [of pressure] from Burto (Burton) and a lot of other fellas as well.”

Claiming their 15th-straight World Cup victory after defeating Italy on Saturday, Australia set a new record for the World Cup's longest winning streak, but the Blues' Origin representative insists the best is yet to come from the Kangaroos.

“We’ve only had a little taste so far; I don’t think we’ve dealt all the cards we’ve got,” Mitchell said. “It’s really enjoyable to see and know that there are any opportunities on the field. That’s because we respect the ball, respect each other and defend for each other as well.

“I’d like to say that we have the best in the world in our team. I know it’s an out-there phrase but I really do believe that.”

Latrell Mitchell Kangaroos centre