Sale Sharks thanks O'Connor for services

The Sale Sharks have thanked James O' Connor for his services after confirming his release to Australia where he is vying for a spot in the Wallabies' World Cup squad.

Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond says O'Connor goes with the club's full blessing.

"He is an exceptional talent and we will be sorry to see him go."

Former Wallaby five-eighth O'Connor is expected to sign a long-term deal with the Queensland Reds as he tries to force his way into the national squad before the start of the World Cup in Japan in September.

The 28-year-old played 44 Tests for the Wallabies before leaving under controversial circumstances in 2013 after a string of off-field indiscretions.