IRFU eye coaching role for Paul O'Connell

IRFU chiefs have already had conversations with Paul O'Connell regarding a coaching role with the Union - but acknowledge they may have to wait in line for the talismanic Munster man.

O'Connell's planned move to Toulon was derailed by a career-ending hamstring injury and he is taking some time out now before deciding on his next step.

The 36-year-old may still move to Toulon in a coaching role next year, something the IRFU would see as a long term positive. But chief executive Philip Browne has confirmed the Union has already had discussions about a coaching role for O'Connell - when he is ready.

"In many respects, Paul has been coaching for years with forwards and the line-out, so of course we’d be foolish not to be talking to him," Mr Browne says in an interview in Saturday's Examiner Sport. "It’s a matter for Paul, when he’s ready, when he feels he wants to take something on like that. He knows we are here.

"Paul will decide what is the pathway for him in terms of coaching, but he knows we are ready to talk when he is ready."