Repentant O'Connor returns to Wallabies fold

James O'Connor's short stint in Australian rugby purgatory is over, with the 21-year-old recalled on the right wing for the Wallabies' Pool C match against Ireland at Eden Park on Saturday.

O'Connor slept in and missed Australia's World Cup squad announcement in August, was handed a one-match suspension that saw him miss the Tri Nations decider against the All Blacks in Brisbane, and had to settle for being named as a replacement for his team's opening match in New Zealand against Italy.

But a broken thumb suffered by Digby Ioane during the 32-6 win over the Italians at Auckland's North Harbour Stadium has allowed O'Connor to force his way into the first XV named by coach Robbie Deans on Thursday.

"He did a good job off the bench," said Deans. O'Connor scored a try and converted three against Italy after coming on for Anthony Faingaa in the second half.

"But I've got no doubt he's less likely to take that jersey for granted in the future," added the coach.

Adam Ashley-Cooper, whose favoured position is outside centre but who played on the right wing against the Azzurri, shifts to the left flank to accommodate O'Connor's return.

Dislocated ankle

Deans believes Ashley-Cooper is experienced and versatile enough to handle his ever-changing role in the Australia backline.

"We're not too concerned about the numbers on the backs," he said.

"There's jobs that need to be done and it's (a case of) the nearest bloke. The key is that he's willing and able and up for it."

In the only other change from the line-up that put four tries past Italy, wing Drew Mitchell makes his return as a replacement after recovering from a dislocated ankle he suffered playing for Super Rugby side the Waratahs in April.

When asked what words of wisdom he had for the repentant O'Connor, coach Deans' response was simple: "Welcome back."