The Queensland Reds rugby boss Jim Carmichael has launched an impassioned defence of his besieged coach and players amid strong rumours that the wayward Wallaby James O'Connor is poised for a controversial return home.
Carmichael would not confirm whether O'Connor is set to boost the Reds' 2015 Super Rugby roster but admitted he was in the process of addressing their current deficiencies.
The 2011 champions, who also made 2012 and 2013 play-offs, have spiralled out of control this season to be 13th under Richard Graham following five straight losses.
It's understood O'Connor has received a lucrative offer despite concerns about his history of misdemeanours and attitude problems.
23 year old O'Connor has just played his last game for London Irish in the English Premiership and is keen to play at next year's World Cup.
