O’Connell 'hates rehab process so much'

Though he is confident of being fit for the make-or-break showdown against Italy on October 2, Paul O’Connell admits he hasn’t enjoyed being forced to sit out training while waiting for a hamstring strain to heal.

With Leo Cullen and Donnacha Ryan taking part against Russia, Declan Kidney’s two back-up options at lock have got some World Cup game time under their belts but having been in impressive form so far in New Zealand, O’Connell is determined to have an impact against the Azzurri.

The Munster man has had no shortage of injury troubles in his career having struggled with serious groin, back and ankle problems and he concedes the healing process never gets easier.

“The last while has been pretty frustrating,” the second row wrote in his O2 World Cup blog.

“I tweaked the hamstring in the warm-up against Australia and even though it didn't hamper me, or hurt in the match, a scan revealed that there had been a small bit of bleeding.

“I wouldn't be the best patient in the world, to which any physio who had dealt with me will testify.

“Rehabbing is so annoying and incredibly boring. When you're working in the gym you can see the progress in terms of getting bigger and stronger. When you're doing fitness, you work up a good sweat.

“Rehabbing is undertaken at such a low level that you're more likely to get cold. I hate it so much. I have been doing some running and stuff and will be going for another run in the morning.”

With chants of ‘Ole, Ole’ ringing around Eden Park inside the first 10 minutes against Australia it’s clear the Irish team won’t endure any shortage of support for the duration of their involvement in the tournament.

O’Connell, who has witnessed some special atmospheres for both province and country, admits the buzz in New Zealand and at home has made a real difference to the squad.

“We received the footage of the O2 Arena in Dublin during the Australia match and it was absolutely incredible. We watched the footage on the team bus afterwards and it underlined to us the depth and extent of the support we enjoy - believe me, it's hugely appreciated by the players.

“Rotorua was hilarious as I've never seen so many supporters outside of Ireland. The support is phenomenal. Most seem to have rented motor homes because unlike hotel rooms there are plenty of vacancies, every bit of parking space seems to be occupied.”