Former Wallaby problem child James O'Connor says he has grown up and he's also a better rugby player as prepares to return home to Australia.
The 24-year-old O'Connor will leave French champions Toulon after Sunday's Top 14 clash with Stade Francais and will link up with the Queensland Reds in his bid to regain Wallabies selection for the 2015 World Cup.
He admitted on Saturday he felt he had things to prove to Australia after leaving under a cloud in late 2013 when his ARU contract was ripped up following an incident at Perth Airport.
O'Connor was not offered a new contract by the Melbourne Rebels and left with an unenviable reputation as a disruptive influence.
The then Australia coach Ewen McKenzie declared that he would have to "modify (his) behaviour" if he wanted to resurrect his international career.
"I didn't leave on good terms," said O'Connor. "I've got things to prove to my country."
However his playing stints in both England and France appear to have been incident-free and Australian teammates at Toulon have spoken highly of him as a more mature person and teammate.
"I've picked up so many things from my time here," said O'Connor.
"I've learnt a great deal from this team. Playing with top players gives you confidence.
"There's a real culture of winning here, I'm sure the boys are going to win the Top 14 and the European Champions Cup."
Explaining his decision to return home he added: "I'm going back to Australia in the hope of fulfilling a dream: to play in the World Cup.
"I will do everything to earn my selection, first of all in the Super 15, then with the national team."
O'Connor has turned out 10 times for Toulon, scoring four tries with a total of 59 points.
Reflecting on his Top 14 spell he said: "I've grown up. I've really developed my game, especially in attack, in learning how to make good decisions. I understand rugby better now."
He quits Toulon meanwhile with fond memories of his half year in France.
"I love the way of life in France, the culture and their style of living suits me perfectly.
"I reckon it's the ideal place for me to better express myself both on and off the pitch."
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