Rumours abounded this morning that tomorrow's Pro12 semi-final against Ospreys could be Paul O'Connell's final home game for Munster.
The reports sparked talk once more of a move to Toulon or Racing Metro or another moneyed Top 14 outfit.
However, in an interview with Marcus Horan on Rugbai Beo, O'Connell hinted that he is considering retiring from rugby outright after the World Cup. The thought of retiring now holds no fears for him.
I think if I had to retire in the morning I’d be very happy. It wouldn’t bother me.
O'Connell also spoke about the possibility of a coaching career, but indicated he would rather begin that away from Munster.
I think you would probably step away initially and take a bit of time out. It’s very much a bubble. You think Munster’s the be all and end all and Irish rugby’s the be all and end all, when in fact it probably isn’t.
The interview will be broadcast on Rugbai Beo on TG4 ahead of their coverage of the Ospreys game. Coverage begins at 2.00.
