‘I can’t wait to get playing alongside Faf’, says James O’Connor

By Adam Ellis
Summer arrival James O’Connor feels he and scrum-half partner Faf de Klerk can add bite to the attack of Sale Sharks this season.
The Wallaby is yet to feature for the Sharks after undergoing surgery to correct an ankle problem in the close season and has watched on from the sidelines as de Klerk has excelled since his switch from the Golden Lions to the AJ Bell Stadium.
After watching on as de Klerk collected man of the match awards, O’Connor said he was looking forward to linking up with the former Golden Lion when he can take to the pitch.
“Faf’s a very talented guy and a real character as well,” the 27-year-old said.
“I think the biggest thing for me thinking about playing as a 10 alongside Faf is that he controls the game beautifully.
“South African scrum-halves are some of the best in the world.
“They are very chirpy and control the guys around the field very well and the beautiful thing is that Faf obviously listens to the game plan – if he sees something, he can take that opportunity.
“He’s got the speed and the footwork, he’s got the passing game and as we saw against Newcastle and [London] Irish, he’s got the kick too to be able to find space and really dominate the game.”
Now back in training as he continues his rehabilitation O’Connor says he is settling in well to his new surroundings after penning a three-year deal to switch Toulon for Sale in June.
“If you’re enjoying yourself and throwing yourself into training and being part of the group which I’ve done here, it’s a great vibe.
“There is so much going on both on the field and away from the pitch in the team activity room and everyone is keen to head out for a tea or coffee.
“So it’s keeping my mind ticked over and I’m not frustrated at all. I’ve been training with the team over the past week or so and I felt pretty good so I’m looking forward to getting out there and trying to help the team.”