Warriors take on disgraced talent spotter

SYDNEY: The Warriors have signed controversial recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan, contingent on his clearance from the NRL to return to the game.

Warriors chief executive Cameron George confirmed the Auckland club will be the new home of one of rugby league’s premier talentspotters, less than two years after he was deregistered.

The deal must be ratified by the NRL, which in 2016 cancelled O’Sullivan’s registration after alleged links with controversial punter Eddie Hayson.

The former Melbourne and Sydney Roosters recruiter has convinced Warriors bosses he is a reformed man.

‘‘We’ve done our due diligence on what’s happened in the past,’’ George said.

‘‘It’s been dealt with by the National Rugby League. They’ve obviously taken whatever action they believe was appropriate.

‘‘We all make mistakes. I don’t have to go far in my family or friends line to find people who have made mistakes.

‘‘This game is about redemptions.’’

It is understood registration is likely to be completed this week, with conditions placed on O’Sullivan.

The news comes after Manly tried to hire O’Sullivan for its vacant recruitment department earlier this month, and is a massive boost for the resurgent Warriors.

O’Sullivan helped set up the Storm’s era of dominance alongside Craig Bellamy and is credited with helping spot the likes of Billy Slater, Greg Inglis and Israel Folau.

He played a significant role in the Roosters’ allstar squad of the past decade, after moving there in 2007, helping to identify stars such as Roger TuivasaSheck, now the Warriors captain.

The club underwent a change in ownership earlier this month, with new owner the Auckland Rugby League vowing 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 and are on track for their first finals appearance since 2011.

‘‘I can promise you this is part of the juggernaut that we’re building for the Warriors,’’ George said.

‘‘What’s been renowned as a shopping centre in New Zealand for young talent, we’ve just closed a number of doors in getting the best recruiter in the business working for us.’’ — AAP