O'Connell optimistic about Ulster match

Rugby:Paul O'Connell is "very hopeful" that he will be back in time to lead Munster in their Heineken Cup quarter-final match against Ulster at Thomond Park on Easter Sunday, April 8th.

Speaking in his O2 diary, O’Connell who had to stand down as Ireland captain after suffering knee ligament damage during Sunday’s Six Nations Championship match against France in Paris and who will miss the remainder of the tournament, recalled the moment he suffered the injury.

“It was the 61st minute and (French captain) Thierry Dusautoir tackled me side on and the knee buckled. I hobbled around for a bit but the adrenaline kicked in and I was able to play on without too much discomfort. At soon as the match finished though I knew I was in a bit of trouble.

“We flew back that night and I went straight to Santry for a scan. The specialist would subsequently confirm the initial diagnosis of the radiographer. Frustrating would be one word for it. Injuries are part and parcel of sport but any philosophical attitude tends to disappear initially at least when it happens to you.

“I thought I was in good form and had been really enjoying the Ireland camp; it was good fun and there was good camaraderie. We were building nicely in terms of performance in the Six Nations and to go from that to my current situation is disappointing.

“I spent some time in camp but came away because I needed to let the lads get on with it: Donnacha Ryan to run the lineouts and Rory (Best) to lead the team. They need time to concentrate on the tasks in hand and don’t need me there. I had offered my views on various things but it was time to let them get on with it.”

He confirmed that he started his rehab, going to the gym yesterday to do some upper body weights and then enjoying a session with Munster physiotherapist Dave O’Sullivan yesterday evening. He is wearing a knee brace, a course of action in keeping with a medial ligament injury.

O’Connell continued: “The prognosis is four to six weeks with the Ulster match in the Heineken Cup falling in the middle of that but I would be very hopeful to be back in time for that game.