Sean O’Brien Confirms London Irish Move
Ireland flanker Sean O'Brien takes on Scotland's Rob Harley during Saturday's Six Nations game in Edinburgh ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
Sean O’Brien is contracted to the IRFU until the end of Rugby World Cup 2019. He has made a significant contribution to both Leinster and Ireland both on and off the field over the course of his career to date and will continue to do so over the coming months.
The IRFU wishes Sean well for his future career at London Irish.
Statement from Sean O’Brien:
This is one of the hardest decisions that I have ever had to make. I have played all my rugby in Ireland.
“With Tullow, Leinster and with Ireland, and to move from the place I call home and that I love so much, was not easy.
“That being said, I feel that the time has come to explore other opportunities, to challenge myself at a new environment, in a new city, with a new club and against different players and teams on a weekly basis. London Irish and what they are about is a club that I feel I can grow with and also contribute to and I feel that they have a set-up and an ethos that will make me feel at home.
“For me and the time I have left here in Ireland, I want to stay fit and healthy and finish out the season with a strong Six Nations with Ireland and then turn my attention to Leinster and hopefully a seat on the plane to Japan.
“Thanks to my family, friends and my girlfriend Sarah for their unbelievable support in making this decision and of course the fans for all the support I’ve received over the past 13 years. I am looking forward to representing Leinster and Ireland as best as I can over the next nine months.”