VIDEO: Paul O’Connell reflects on his “incredible journey” before start of World Cup

Paul O’Connell has yet to speak publicly since the end of his Test career but today we got a rare insight into how he was feeling as his time in the green of Ireland drew to a close.

In a video released by team sponsors 3, O’Connell reflects on his international career, alongside Johnny Sexton and Robbie Henshaw.

The second-row, who keeps his emotions in check at all times, admits he would love to be starting out once again like his young colleague Henshaw.

“I wouldn’t say I’m jealous but I see these young guys with these incredible journeys ahead of them. Sometimes I’d love to back there with all the knowledge I have now,” says O’Connell.

“It will be tough but there is no value in seeing the tough side of it. There is value in bringing the emotion and passion to it,” he added as he contemplated his final Test matches.

“It has been an incredible journey, some incredible highs and some lows too with injuries and disappointments that you would learn from. I would have never thought I would go on such an incredible journey.”

O’Connell jokes that Sexton is Joe Schmidt’s son, such is their close relationship, but he also highlights how important it is for the Ireland coach that the fly-half recovers from a groin injury in time for Sunday’s clash with Argentina.

“Everyone must know their role inside out but Johnny is the only guy who knows his own role and everyone else’s role inside out as well. That aids us in how we play because obviously Joe wants us to certain things but Joe can’t be on the pitch and have this guy in Johnny who can direct.”

For his part Sexton opened up on how strange the quarter-final will seem without O’Connell leading the team out. The Toulon lock has returned to Ireland to receive treatment on his badly damaged hamstring.

“It will be strange for me anyway when somebody else is captaining us. You know what I mean? It has just been a privilege to play under you. I won’t miss the arguments,” said the Leinster man.

“It is not too often you come across really special people and he has been the most special person to play with.”

Watch the whole video below.