Paul O’Connell: I don’t think Ireland have played to their potential at the World Cup

Ireland may lack the playing numbers of major countries but their captain believes that given luck with injuries they could become the second northern hemisphere winners of the Webb Ellis Trophy

This is a moment to pause, a stretch of calm before battle, and Paul O’Connell is serene. He is about to enter a nine-month period which could seal a majestic career and, looking ahead to a defining series of matches in the Six Nations, Ireland’s captain is in a relaxed mood. There is a striking difference between the imposing giant in green, dominating the lineout and carrying a mighty force in every run and tackle, and the softly spoken, twinkling O’Connell in conversation. He is one of the greats of European rugby but O’Connell has a light touch off the field.

The 35-year-old, who has played 96 times for Ireland, and in seven Tests for the Lions, also knows too much about rugby to make any grand predictions. And so it is striking that O’Connell allows himself to break away from his squad’s mantra of concentrating only on their first game as defending Six Nations champions, against Italy in Rome on Saturday, to anticipate an even more important tournament – and a beguiling dream.

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source Sport | The Guardian http://ift.tt/1zvhaIG