London Irish have confirmed the signing of Australia international James O'Connor until the end of the season. The Aviva Premiership side were widely expected to announce the capture of the Wallabies back, who will be looking to use the move as a means of forcing his way back into the national squad before the 2015 World Cup. O'Connor is expected to make his debut for the Exiles in Sunday's clash against Northampton.
The 23 year old said " having decided that I needed a change from both a personal and playing point of view, I spoke to clubs in Japan and France and concluded that the best way forward for my development was to move to England. Given that I've left my support network back in Australia, London Irish offered me an environment that I felt comfortable with."
The former Western Force and Melbourne Rebels played at number 10 during Australia's 2-1 Test series defeat against the British and Irish Lions in the summer, scoring a try in the Wallabies' third Test defeat. However, his off-field behaviour saw him ditched by the Australian Rugby Union last month after an incident at Perth airport, where O'Connor was reportedly escorted from the premises after arguing with airline staff. Australia coach Ewen McKenzie insisted the decision did not close the door on O'Connor's Test career, but admitted the player has to "modify behaviour".
