Returning James O’Connor keen to add ‘stardust’ to Leicester’s attack

Fly-half back in UK after facing All Blacks with Australia
O’Connor may play against Northampton on Saturday

James O’Connor, Leicester’s new Australian recruit, is hoping to bring a touch of sparkle to the East Midlands after finally linking up properly with the Tigers this week. O’Connor’s first spell last month was curtailed when he was swiftly recalled to the Wallaby squad to face New Zealand but he is now back raring to go ahead of his new club’s derby against Northampton on Saturday.

Having only arrived in the UK on Monday, the 35-year-old played a limited part in his first training session but looks set to feature in the matchday 23 against the Saints. The Tigers’ new director of rugby, Geoff Parling, will not confirm his team until Friday but hinted that O’Connor was in line for some action despite his latest long-haul flight. “He’s an experienced operator who gets up to speed quickly, put it that way,” said Parling. “When you’re in business class you can just put your feet up anyway. I don’t think it was too bad for him.”