Irked O’Mahony must lighten up

AS A tough man, Peter O’Mahony should be familiar with tough luck. And that is the response one feels to his dealing with uncomfortable questions at a Munster press conference.

He was asked about his future in light of rumours that there are clubs in England and France willing to pay a fortune to get a Lions captain on to their rosters.

There were reports of stilted answers and a general discomfort surrounding him before the intervention of a member of the Munster staff directed the discussion to yesterday’s European Cup match against Leicester.

However, until his contract is settled the uncertainty, and the questions, will continue.

His mood may not have been helped by the news on Friday that Rhys Ruddock is tied into the Irish system for two more years after signing an agreement with Leinster.

Ruddock has long impressed with his power and tenacity, and the truth is he could replace O’Mahony in the national side. Contrary to what his champions suggest, the latter is not irreplaceable. Johnny Sexton, Conor Murray and Tadhg Furlong are.

O’Mahony is excellent and better than the alternatives – but not by so much that his loss is unthinkable.

Tough as that may be to hear, it’s a fact.