Setback: Paul O'Connell
Related links
Teams
Also see
Munster announced that Paul O'Connell will undergo surgery to correct the back problem that has him sidelined in the recent past.
A statement issued read. "Following consultation between IRFU and Munster medical staff and the player himself, it has been decided that Paul O'Connell will undergo back surgery at the earliest opportunity."
The former Lions captain is now likely to be sidelined for around eight weeks according to reports, ruling him out of Ireland's opening matches in next year's Six Nations championship.
O'Connell has only made two appearances for Munster this season, against Edinburgh and Racing Métro in the Heineken Cup, whilst also missing the November Internationals.
Comments
Dougie says...
Chubbylugs, when fit in the last 2 or 3 years he's been playing as well as, if not better than, any point in his career.
Posted 03:43 31st December 2012
Lucasrg says...
I hope is not a disc herniation...'cause that is tough....would be nice to have a proper medical diagnosis, too general the "back pain" thing
Posted 00:26 31st December 2012
Derrynane says...
This injury was discovered before the first game in the AIs and now they say that he needs to have "at the earliest opportunity". I wonder if this injury has been mis-handled?
Posted 18:39 30th December 2012
liam2me says...
AN injured POC would still be a better option at 5 for the Lions then almost any other!
Posted 17:52 30th December 2012
Chubbylugs says...
Maybe a good thing for the lions if he isn't fit. We have a tendency to pick on reputation rather than form, so an in form parling, lawes, Ryan etc would be a better pick than someone who was great a few years ago. Same for o'driscoll
Posted 17:01 30th December 2012
ciaran1792 says...
I think its time to call it a day on his terms. End it with one last game for ireland and do a lap of honour. Let him be cheared by all irish fans a servet to irish rugby like paul o'connell has earned that honour.
Posted 16:18 30th December 2012
5Lock4ward says...
This further cements my belief that the Lions 2nd row will be Gray and Lawes with Hines, Launchbury and Hamilton as cover. There were 5 locks taken last time and if that number holds up I'll bet my 5 are very close if not dead-on.
Posted 13:10 30th December 2012
Sincero says...
Huge loss for Munster, Ireland and the Lions if that's his season. I've just had two back surgeries myself, and recovery is tough. It's 8-weeks before he can do anything more strenuous than walking. He is an incredible athlete, so he does stand a chance of recovering in time for action in the 6N. I'd like to wish him all the best.
Posted 12:42 30th December 2012
Dhaych says...
Think its time to call it a day Paulie!
Posted 12:34 30th December 2012
melkdave says...
Well thats annother players chances of getting on the Lions tour gone,even if he plays the final 2 6Ns matches .He just hasnt had any gametime worth mentioning ,this season at all.So going to need a really spectacular end of season ,to even stand a chance ,which i dont think he will have . at all.
Posted 23:46 29th December 2012