Controversial recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan is set to be given a second life by the Warriors, less than two years after he was de-registered by the NRL.
The Warriors confirmed via Twitter on Tuesday that the former Melbourne and Sydney Roosters talent spotter would be joining the club, ending a month of speculation about his future.
The deal is yet to be ratified by the NRL, who in 2016 cancelled his registration after alleged links with controversial punter Eddie Hayson.
However, it’s understood that is likely to be complete this week with conditions placed on O’Sullivan’s registration.
“The NRL is in discussions with the Warriors but has not registered Mr O’Sullivan at this stage,” an NRL spokesman told AAP.
The news comes after Manly tried to fill their vacant recruitment department with O’Sullivan earlier this month, and is a massive boost to the resurgent Warriors.
O’Sullivan helped set up the Storm’s era of dominance alongside Craig Bellamy during his time there and is credited with helping spot the likes of Billy Slater, Greg Inglis and Israel Folau.
He played a significant role in the Roosters’ all-star squad of the past decade since moving there in 2007, helping to identify stars such as Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Boyd Cordner.
His arrival in Auckland comes as the Warriors have made significant steps forward in the past six months, having also signed former Melbourne and Brisbane strength and conditioning coach Alex Corvo.
The club undertook new ownership earlier this month with the Auckland Rugby League, where they vowed to help keep local junior talent at the club.
O’Sullivan will no doubt play a vital role in this.
On the field the Warriors are flying, having spent the entire season in the top four and are on track for their first finals appearance since 2011.