James O'Connor excited about joining Faf De Klerk

Australia international James O'Connor is excited about playing alongside Faf de Klerk for the Aviva Premiership club Sale Sharks in the ongoing season.

Both the players joined the AJ Bell Stadium outfit ahead of the 2017/18 season with de Klerk already producing a series of man-of-the-match displays for the club during his four outings.

O'Connor, who is yet to make his first appearance for Sale Sharks as he is in a recovery from an ankle surgery said he cannot wait to take on the field partnering alongside with de Klerk.

"Faf's a very talented guy and a real character as well,” said James. "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 Irish, he’s got the kick too to be able to find space and really dominate the game."

Reflecting on his rehabilitation period, the 27-year-old said he has enjoyed his time with the club till now and is hoping to make amends for the lost time when he returns to action soon.

"The fact that I was injured when I arrived here is a bit like what the French say: ‘C’est la vie. It’s life and is a part of rugby,” James added.

"There are positive moments and there are negatives too.

"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.”