James O'Connor to play final game for Melbourne Rebels from the bench on Friday night

JAMES O’Connor will make his final appearance for the Rebels from the bench, rounding out a disastrous few days for the Wallabies No.10.

JAMES O'Connor will make his final appearance for Melbourne Rebels from the bench, rounding out a disastrous few days for the Wallabies fly half.

O’Connor has been left out of the Rebels starting XV for their final-round clash with the Highlanders in favour of rising youngster Bryce Hegarty.

The Rebels on Sunday told O’Connor he would not be offered a contract beyond this season and it now appears only Western Force are likely to extend the under-fire back a Super Rugby lifeline.

Outgoing Rebels coach Damien Hill said O’Connor was named on the bench because of his inability to train earlier in the week.

"We have had solid a week's preparation for this match," Hill said.

"We have selected a very strong side to finish what can be our most successful season in our short history.

"James wasn't able to train Monday and Tuesday which gives him only the Captain's Run to prepare. He has done extremely well to make himself available on the bench. I know this is a match he is very keen to play in."

The Rebels will also be without star back Kurtley Beale on Friday night but haven’t given up hope of re-signing him beyond this season.

Friday night’s clash will also be the Rebels swansong for skipper Gareth Delve and the ever-consistent Ged Robinson.