Paul O’Connell: Andy Farrell made me an offer I couldn’t refuse

There were other offers, Paul O'Connell says, but the chance to get into the international set up was too good to pass

GATHERING EXPERIENCE: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell will look to Paul O’Connell, who led Munster, Ireland and the Lions, to coach the nuances of the game. Picture: Adam Davy

Contrary to popular belief, it will not be all fire and brimstone from Paul O’Connell as he gets settled into his role as Ireland forwards coach.

For those whose perception of the man who led Munster, Ireland, and the Lions with distinction is of a warrior captain beseeching his followers to put the fear of God into the opposition, there may be surprise that it is the chance to coach the nuances of the game and the opportunities to reflect outside the international windows that appeal to the 41-year-old and were influential in helping decide this was the call that could not be ignored.