O’Brien says ‘farm boy’ could leave his roots

Sean O’Brien has confirmed he will not remain a Leinster player for the rest of his career, despite his rejection of overtures from France earlier this year and decision to recommit to his home province for two more seasons.

The Tullow flanker was at the centre of feverish speculation regarding his future at the turn of the year when, along with Jamie Heaslip, he was targeted by a number of Top 14 sides among whom Toulon led the way.

In the end, both players signed on the dotted line to keep them under IRFU control and the auspices of the Leinster branch, but O’Brien pointed out that the perception of him as a ‘farm boy’ who would never leave home are inaccurate.