O'Mahony opens up about red card in Round 1

Ireland hard man Peter O’Mahony has opened up regarding the incident which saw him sent from the field in Round 1 of the 2020-21 Six Nations – the same incident which saw him handed a ban later on.

O’Mahony has since served his ban and is available for selection for Ireland’s Round 5 clash against England.

He was carded for hitting a ruck at speed and making contact with the head of Wales prop Tomas Francis.

"Look, when it comes to the breakdown and it comes to international rugby, you have to be incredibly urgent, you've got to be incredibly accurate and you've got to bring physicality," O'Mahony said.

"These incidents happen. It's a very physical game.

"You know, I've always played hard, I've always played fairly in my opinion. Look, I 100% was in the wrong with what happened and the incident.

"But I think my team-mates know better than anyone that I was acting with the best intent with the best intentions for the team and unfortunately that's what happened."

O’Mahony was asked whether he thought he owed his teammates a special performance in Round 5, he responded as follows:

"I don't think they'll be looking for me to put in a different performance than I would any other week that I play for Ireland.

"That would be unjust to the jersey.

"I go out every time to play as best as I can - and more importantly than anyone I think the lads around me know that."

"It's been hard. It's different when you're injured. When you're fit and healthy and raring to go, but can't it's a bit tougher.

"I spent a couple of great weeks with Munster, training with the A team and stuff, helping the seniors prepare for their games. Back here then last week to help the lads as best I could, which I enjoyed.

"I'm not making any bones about it, I'm looking forward to getting back playing."