Paul O'Connell joins Ireland set-up as forwards coach ‘I am really looking forward to working with Andy (Farrell) and the rest of the coaching group’, said the Irish legend. By The42 Team Thursday 7 Jan 2021, 10:55 AM Jan 7th 2021, 10:55 AM 32,368 Views 47 Comments Ireland and Munster legend Paul O’Connell. Image: Billy Stickland/INPHO Image: Billy Stickland/INPHO IRELAND HEAD COACH Andy Farrell has brought former captain Paul O’Connell on board as forwards coach. Simon Easterby previously held the role but will remain as part of the coaching set-up as defence coach. O’Connell won 108 caps during his illustrious Ireland career and skippered the side to Six Nations success in 2014.