British & Irish Lion Paul O’Connell admits he is relishing a monumental clash with Wales in Cardiff after beating England in Dublin on Sunday.
Thanks largely to the boot of fellow Lion Jonathan Sexton, who racked up 14 points for his side, Ireland saw off Stuart Lancaster’s troops 19-9.
O'Connell captained a strong tactical performance from the men in green as England failed to ever truly hit their straps in the Irish capital.
And the veteran second-rower hailed his coach, Joe Schmidt, as well as the depth of the Irish squad after the late English onslaught was withheld.
“We have a hell of a lot of respect for this England team so we are delighted to beat them. Joe Schmidt is an excellent coach and a very clever guy,” said O‘Connell.
“There is an excellent squad here as well, we have four very good provinces at the moment and there is good strength in depth, confidence and competition for places so it is a combination of a lot of things.
“Wales is going to be the hardest game of the championship.
“Away from home it is always harder – Wales have put themselves in with a chance now with a big win over in Paris, so it is going to be incredibly difficult.”
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