Ireland add Paul O'Connell to coaching panel ahead of Six Nations

Ireland have added former captain Paul O’Connell to their coaching set up ahead of the Six Nations tournament.

The 41-year-old will take up the role of forwards coach with Simon Easterby taking in charge of defence.

“I am really looking forward to working with Andy and the rest of the coaching group," he said.

"I worked with Simon as a player and am looking forward to working with him again.

"It’s an exciting young group of players to be involved with and there are talented forwards coming through across the four provinces that will no doubt be pushing for international selection in the coming months and years.”

The former lock has played 108 Tests for Ireland and is fourth in the most-capped player for his country. He has featured in four World Cups including 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015 and has also played seven Tests for the British and Irish Lions that came across three tours between 2005 and 2013.

He spent 15 years of his club career with Munster and post his retirement in 2015 he was worked with Munster Academy, Ireland Under 20 and Stade Francais.

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is excited about O'Connell joining the backroom staff and is confident that his experience will benefit the team.

“I am really looking forward to working with Andy and the rest of the coaching group. I worked with Simon as a player and am looking forward to working with him again.

"It’s an exciting young group of players to be involved with and there are talented forwards coming through across the four provinces that will no doubt be pushing for international selection in the coming months and years.”

Ireland will kick-start the 2021 Six Nations with a clash against Wales at Principality Stadium on 7th February.