Mitchell, 20, is in his second season of first grade with the Sydney Roosters and despite a slow start to the year has found form in recent weeks.

A centre who can play wing and fullback, Meninga told Fox Sports Mitchell is bashing the door down for a start in the green and gold. His impressive first half against Manly on Sunday would have done his chances no harm.

When asked what excites him most about Mitchell, Meninga said it was “his raw talent”.

“He’s a special talent,” he said.

“The first try he scored against the Cowboys (in round 21) was special. He’s an aggressive player, which you need to be and when he plays aggressive, he plays really well.

“You look at his role in the competition — he’s a dangerous figure and he’s an excitement machine for the fans.”