After getting the boot from Melbourne, Blackrock College have made a bold bid to sign James O’Connor. Sort of…
It hasn’t been a great few weeks for Wallaby James O’Connor. The clearly talented back was forced into an unfamiliar 10 role during the Lions Tests and while he did score a fine try in the third game, he struggled to make a real impact and he was spotted in a burger joint at 4am a few days before the second Test.
Then his club, Melbourne Rebels, effectively gave him a P45 this week, stating: “He has been an outstanding player for the club and he is a Wallaby. No one questions his playing ability. It was more a selection issue and how the club felt he fitted into the team dynamic.” The rugby equivalent of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’.
We’re sure the rugby rumour mill will start now, linking O’Connor with half of the French Top 14 and probably Leinster too, but Blackrock College have been first off the mark to make him an offer. Of sorts anyway.
The team that play in 1B of the Ulster Bank League followed up on an offer of a contract with what has to be said is not the best win bonus package.
We await O’Connor’s reply, which will probably never come.
Thanks to Gavin Hegarty for sending our way.
