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Martin Johnson

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O'Connell out to emulate Johnson

23 April 2009, 3:56 pm

By Rob Barnett

British and Irish Lions captain Paul O'Connell is aiming to follow the example of former skipper Martin Johnson.

Coach Ian McGeechan has returned to the formula that served him so well in South Africa 12 years ago in picking an uncompromising lock who is not skipper of his national side.

In 1997, Johnson led the Lions to a famous 2-1 Test series triumph and O'Connell hopes to emulate England's World Cup-winning captain.

"I don't really know Martin that well. In 1997, I was 17 and very impressionable. I watched him on that tour and playing for England," O’Connell said

"I thought he was a fabulous player. The way he led the Lions in 1997 was something to be admired and learned from.

"When I look back at the Lions, it's the teams that have been successful that I remember."

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