Are we dreaming? Paul O’Connell is set to RETURN to the Irish squad…

Oct 15, 2015

Paul O’Connell is set to make his return to the Irish camp ahead of Sunday’s World Cup quarter-final against Argentina.

Wait, what?

Before you get too excited, it is most important to note that the Irish team captain is not actually going to be playing any rugby. Instead, the Limerick man will offer his vast experience and leadership skills to the team.

A mere 24 hours after going under the knife to treat his tournament ending hamstring injury, because that is how Paulie does things.

Team manager Michael Kearney has said that the nation's favourite redhead had remained very involved in the team’s preparations before he set off for London to undergo surgery.

“Paul came back into camp on Monday and spent the first couple of days in camp – he was in good form and was contributing to the meetings."

"He left for London this morning where he is having an operation later today and we are hopeful that Paul will rejoin us back here in Cardiff either tomorrow evening or on Saturday.”

The Irish Times reports that Paul said to be bitterly disappointed in having his World Cup appearance cut short- as were the emotional rugby fans up and down the country.

So #ThanksPaulie is trending at number 2 in Ireland, above the budget. Can we please get it to number 1? It would only be fitting.

— Kino (@RugbyKino) October 13, 2015

In the mean time, Keith Earls and Johnny Sexton are expected to train on Friday. No decision has been made on whether or not to appeal Sean O’Brien’s one week ban for striking Pascal Pape.

“Keith Earls first of all, he sat out training on Tuesday, basically we’re just managing his load – but he will train fully tomorrow,” added Kearney.

He said it "took the guts of seven hours" in order to go through all the evidence. He said that they are "reflecting" on the written report before any further decisions are made.

Kearney added that the team are incredibly grateful for the support of the fans. He said the atmosphere in in the Millennium stadium was like having a “16th man”.

“I don’t think anyone has ever heard Ireland’s call sung with such passion and gusto it really was spine tingling."

Good to know all those vocal exercises are paying off- even if we are just roaring at a TV screen.