James O’Connor tipped for short-term move to London Irish

James O’Connor has announced he will be moving to England “next month” and reports Down Under suggest London Irish are leading the race in securing the service of the Australian discard.
The 23-year-old utility back, who was released from his ARU contract earlier this month after being thrown out of Perth airport, is looking to get his career back on track and he has opted for a short-term overseas rather “until early in the new year to resume competition.”
A return to the Western Force for the 2014 Super Rugby is still on the cards though.
O’Connor said: “I have decided that I will be moving overseas next month.
“I am in final discussions with several clubs and will announce the new partnership in coming days.
“I spoke to clubs from Japan, France, but for me the best way forward is a short-term deal in England. An area of my game I have been criticised for is my game management, controlling the game from No.10 or No.15, it is one thing people have said that I need to improve.
“I played the British & Irish Lions at the start of the year and I realised that it was a completely different way to play rugby. England and Wales play a very high-pressured, territory based game. I thoroughly believe I will improve my game by being in those surroundings and playing in their conditions, and get a better understanding of how they play.”
“I believe the move, for a few months, will be beneficial for me to develop in a different environment and help me to be the best rugby player and person that I can be.
“It will also ensure that I continue playing professional rugby immediately and not wait until early in the new year to resume competition.
“I contacted Western Force today to inform them of my short-term move overseas, but my management and I are continuing discussions with the Force about a longer term partnership.
“Both Michael Foley (coach) and Mark Sinderberry (CEO) have been great supporters of mine and I greatly appreciate it.”