NRL: Inspiration looking down on Capewell

Luke Capewell of the Rabbitohs. Photo / Getty Images

South Sydney's Luke Capewell has had more pressure thrust on him this week than any other young player in the NRL as he readies himself to fill in for John Sutton at five-eighth.

But he'll receive plenty of inspiration from above.

The quietly spoken 21-year-old will receive the opportunity of his career tomorrow against Melbourne, but he's had to endure one of his toughest weeks in the lead-up.

His grandfather died last week and Capewell missed Rabbitohs training on Tuesday to fly to Brisbane and then drive 10 hours with his brother and sister to home-town Charleville for the funeral.

Teammates say Capewell is close to his family and the death of his grandfather has rocked him.

But in a testament to his character, come Thursday the off-contract Capewell was the last player off Redfern Oval after training, as he puts on a brave face and knuckles down for the challenge which could dictate his future.

"I live with Luke and I know how much Luke loves his family and how much he loves his football as well," said flatmate Beau Champion. "I spoke to Luke earlier in the week after that happened and I said 'your grandfather would want you to get out there and do him proud' and Luke understood that and he appreciated all the boys giving him support.

"I know that his grandfather had a big impact on Luke's life and I think Luke will take it in his stride and he'll feel that hopefully his grandfather is watching over him for the game on the weekend.

"Maybe it's a bit of a coincidence that it's happened this week when he's got his opportunity and strange things can happen."

Without a club for next season, Capewell has spent an anxious season with North Sydney in the NSW Cup - making just two top-grade appearances for Souths off the bench.

However, with Sutton gone for the season with a dislocated shoulder, Capewell suddenly has a chance to lead the Rabbitohs to only their second finals appearance since 1989.

Capewell has played with and against his halves partner Chris Sandow since he was 11 and the pair are backing their combination to shine through in a must-win trip to Melbourne. In just 24 career appearances Capewell has 13 tries and believes No 6 is his best position.

"It's a big challenge but he loves his footy, Luke, and he's been itching for his chance and now he's going to get it," said coach John Lang, who hopes Souths can retain him. "He probably prefers five eighth ... I've always thought fullback is his best position but hopefully he'll prove me wrong.

"I don't think it'll worry him [the trip back to Charleville for the funeral]. He's young and he's fit. He said he felt a little bit tired today but he's got a couple of days to rest up so he'll be fine."

Champion is a 50/50 chance of recovering from a corked knee and will need to pass a fitness test on Saturday.

- AAP