London Irish are expected to announce the signing of Australia star James O’Connor.

The Aviva Premiership side have called a press conference for 10am to announce a “significant player signing”, with O’Connor thought to be the man in question.

The 23-year-old also posted on his Twitter feed: “London bound for a few months to play some rugby, can’t wait.. see you soon Aus! Thanks for all the support guys — appreciated”.

O’Connor was regarded as one of the brightest talents in Australian rugby, and made his Wallabies debut as an 18-year-old in 2008.

He has added a further 43 caps to his tally. He played at number 10 during Australia’s 2-1 Test series defeat against the British & Irish Lions in the summer.

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.