O’Connell commits to Munster and Ireland for another two seasons

Paul O'Connell has signed a new Ireland international contract that will see him remain in Ireland to play his rugby with Munster for a further two seasons until 2014.

The announcement was made today at Munster's media briefing ahead of their RaboDirect PRO12 game against Benetton Treviso (Thomond Park Stadium, Saturday 8.15pm) by Munster coach Tony McGahan.

"All of us at Munster are delighted that Paul has agreed an extension to his contract that sees him remain with Munster for the next two seasons," McGahan said.

"He's our captain and his competitive instinct on the playing field coupled with his influence on the Squad environment is immeasurable.

"That Paul has been chosen to lead Ireland in the upcoming RBS Six Nations reflects on his leadership capabilities," continued McGahan, "but it's his constant desire to become a better player whilst improving those around him that makes him such a powerful and valuable member of the Munster squad."

The man himself who spent the morning in the UL gym before presenting himself for the noon media briefing said, “I’ve been lucky over the last 10 years to play with a team like Munster that has such phenomenal support and I've enjoyed a lot of success during that time.

"So much has changed since my first games for Munster and Ireland. Heineken Cup and Grand Slam wins, Celtic League, now of course RaboDirect PRO12, titles.

“Brand new stadia and having the opportunity to play with so many good players, that it was always

a very easy decision to remain in my home province."

Some 130 games after making his senior debut (v Bath in 2001 pre-season friendly), the Young Munster clubman added; "I'm feeling really good both mentally and physically, which in part goes down to how well we are looked after here in Ireland.

“So I'm really looking forward to the remainder of this season and beyond. And doing all I can to help make Munster and Ireland as successful as possible.”