Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio Ulster,11 Feb 2026,34 mins

Seán O’Brien: Ireland v Italy, Selection calls and Coaching life

The Ireland Rugby Social Podcast

Available for over a year

Former Ireland, Leinster and Lions back row Seán O’Brien joins The Ireland Rugby Social to share his thoughts on Ireland’s selection ahead of the Six Nations clash with Italy. Seán weighs in on back-row balance, what coaches really look for at Test level, and why some players thrive in games while others struggle to translate training form. Drawing on his experience as both an elite international and a coach, he discusses mindset, physicality, and the psychology behind selection calls. Seán also talks about stepping into coaching, the key differences between the current Irish team and past squads, and what young players must work on to make it to international level.

Programme Website
More episodes