The Western Force have advised James O’Connor to take time out before deciding on his playing future but have left the door open for the wayward Wallaby to join the Perth-based Super Rugby franchise.

O’Connor was on Thursday released from the remainder of his Australian Rugby Union contract as punishment after an ARU investigation into an incident at Perth airport, which followed previous off-field misdemeanours.

While ruled ineligible for remaining Tests this year, O’Connor can continue to play for the Wallabies next year if he remains in Australia.

But he would face a huge pay cut – getting Test match payments only – as he would get no ARU top up to his Super Rugby contract.

Unwanted by the Melbourne Rebels who declined to offer him a new contract for next season, O’Connor was in talks about a return to the Force – the only Australian Super Rugby franchise to express interest – but they were put on hold after last month’s airport incident.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Force encouraged O’Connor to “take time away from rugby” to consider his playing future in light of the ARU’s decision not to offer him a contract for 2014.

However the Force said they remained open to the possibility of O’Connor returning to the team where he debuted as a 17-year-old, “provided he understands and observes the club’s non-negotiable standards and values”.

“Our conversations with James and his management regarding a possible return to the Force have been ongoing,” Rugby WA chief executive Mark Sinderberry said.

“These conversations have been thorough and honest, and have included (coach) Michael Foley, Matt Hodgson and players.

“These discussions have been about both on- and off-field matters that we believe can assist James to become the player he aspires to be and to develop himself as a person.

“Since the ARU’s decision, we’ve reiterated our position to James, including the non-negotiable standards and values – particularly around earning respect – that must be upheld by everyone in the team and at this club.

“However, at this point we believe it’s in James best interests to take time and reflect on what’s important to him and what he really wants.”

Sinderberry said the club supported O’Connor regardless of whether he wanted to return to the Force or leave Australian rugby.

“We’d wish him nothing but the best with those endeavours.”