O’Connell joins Meyer at Stade Français

Former Ireland captain Paul O’Connell has been appointed forwards coach of Stade Français, where he will work under Heyneke Meyer.

O’Connell signed a two-year deal with the French club with an option for a third.

‘I am really happy to join Stade Français and to be able to work at a big club with Heyneke Meyer,’ said the 38-year-old, who ended his playing career in 2015.

O’Connell will also work with scrum coach Pieter de Villiers, who played for Stade from 1995 to 2008.

‘I am really delighted to welcome Paul to the Stade Français family,’ said Meyer. ‘Paul will bring his experience to our coaching team through his proven leadership abilities and his tactical and technical skills. This is a major asset for the club and it shows our ambitions.’