The UFC star is close pals with John Connors, previously hosting a movie night for Connors’ The Black Guelph at his Dublin pub the Black Forge Inn. His links with Connors suggest there could be legitimacy in his claims about securing a role in the series.

McGregor made his acting debut last year in Doug Liman’s Road House, where he starred alongside Hollywood A-lister Jake Gyllenhaal.

An RTÉ spokesperson said: “There are no plans for a new series of Love/Hate. Fans can watch all five series on RTÉ Player.” However, an announcement will be made tomorrow if Connors is to be believed.