Penrith Panthers reserve halfback Sean OโSullivan has been forced to deny allegations this week that his move to the Dolphins in 2023 was the result of nepotism.
OโSullivan, who has played five NRL games this year in the absence of Nathan Cleary and 26 in his NRL career to date, is the son of Dolphins recruitment manager Peter OโSullivan.
Despite the connection, OโSullivan senior played no part in the negotiations that secured Seanโs move to the NRLโs newest franchise and the current Panther has taken offence at the suggestion.
โWhen there was talk about it, it wasnโt really true,โ OโSullivan told AAP.
โI know Iโve opened myself up to criticism by moving there. But how I play should determine what the media says.โ
Despite limited opportunities, OโSullivan has performed well at NRL level during Clearyโs Origin absence and the opening phase of the season, when the star half was missing due to a shoulder injury. Penrith have remained undefeated with OโSullivan at the helm.
Heโs been just as important for the clubโs NSW Cup side, who currently sit second on the ladder after losing to Western Suburbs last week with OโSullivan on NRL duty.
With Cleary set to return to the NRL this week after a well-earned break, OโSullivan admits that he might never get to play first-grade for Penrith again if injuries can be avoided.
โI came here knowing that would be the case,โ he said.
โI knew the Origin period was something I really needed to nail. Iโm just glad we could get two from two.โ
Though his time at the foot of the mountains is running out, OโSullivan is taking the opportunity to learn everything he can from his fellow No.7.
โItโs just (Clearyโs) temperament, even off the field โ how he prepares and his mindset going into a game.
โHis confidence is unbelievable. It's something I'm striving for. Iโll keep picking his brain as much as I can.โ
