Toulon reveal the lengths they went to get Paul O’Connell

Persistence has paid off for Toulon.

Bernard Laporte has revealed how difficult it was to sign Paul O'Connell. The Toulon head coach said the Munster legend had planned to retire from club rugby, but a series of phone calls changed O'Connell's mind. "Paul O’Connell wanted to stop, but we called every week and he finally agreed," Laporte said on French radio last night. "Toulon will be fine for him to make the transition by bringing his experience here. It is best for both parties, he will bring another dimension." O'Connell will part of the side going for their fourth consecutive European title next season, and won't have to wait long to play in Ireland again, after being drawn in Leinster's pool for the Champions Cup.