Paul O’Connell has long been known for his inspirational words. Having toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2005, 2009 & 2013 – the Ireland legend was always one of the main voices on and off the pitch.
During the 2013 tour, O’Connell spoke of his amazement at the level of drive and dedication in the young Owen Farrell, even stating that he was setting an example for the most senior members of the squad.
“I think it’s funny that one of the youngest guys on the team, O Farrell, is the one that’s driving everyone on though.”
“Ya know, we all need to add that extra little bit to our game lads and become a team and push each other around the corner all the time. Push each other to get off the ground. Every little thing we do.”
“The guy is 22 years of age, barking at everyone, driving everyone around the pitch. We should all be f*cking doing it.”
Asked about the clip during an ask me anything on Reddit, Farrell replied: “First of all, Paul is probably one of the best captains I’ve worked under.
“He was definitely someone that when he spoke up, you listened. He was someone that you wanted to follow.
“I’ve always been passionate and loved my rugby. Always watched it, thought about it and always tried to improve. I guess with that came the confidence to speak.
“Especially in my position as fly-half, you kind of have to be like that and I’ve never really been too shy of it.”
Steve Borthwick names three contenders to replace Owen Farrell as captain
England head coach Steve Borthwick has name checked three players who could success Owen Farrell as skipper in the future.
The new boss installed 103-cap playmaker Farrell as his captain, with Ellis Genge and Courtney Lawes as the deputies.
However, speaking today he revealed there are three players currently in his squad who could develop into future England captains.
#1. Ellis Genge
One of the most dynamic props in England, Bristol-born Ellis Genge made his debut for his country as a replacement in a 27-13 win over Wales at Twickenham Stadium in 2016.
Three days earlier, Ellis had agreed a move to Leicester Tigers, where he had been on loan from Bristol for the final months of the 2016/17 season.
Ellis was included in the squad for England’s 2016 touring party to Australia and won the 2016/17 Land Rover Discovery of the Year award.
A former No 8, the ex-Old Redcliffians’ player, was educated at John Cabot City Technology College and led Hartpury College to two AASE Championship titles.
Ellis represented England U17, U18 and U19 before figuring in eight matches for the U20 side in 2015, including the World Rugby Championship final against New Zealand. Ellis was a regular member of England squads under Eddie Jones and was part of the squad that reached the 2019 Rugby World Cup final.
He was named in Steve Borthwick’s squad for the 2023 Guinness Six Nations.
