Lions lock OConnell has been given until Thursday lunchtime to recover from the shoulder injury he sustained against France nearly four weeks ago.

The AC joint separation ruled him out of the 31-5 victory over Wales and it is an indication of his immense worth that coach Eddie OSullivan has allowed him as much time as possible to pull through.

If the 26-year-old is given the green light, he will replace either OKelly or Donncha OCallaghan with the discarded lock having to settle for a place on the bench.

Axing either of the starting second rows against Wales is a tough call for OSullivan given their performances at Lansdowne Road, but OKelly understands his coachs position.

We want to give Paul every opportunity because he was our best player over the first two games. Its very important that he has every chance to be involved, he said.

Paul is very keen and the rest of us will just have to wait. I dont have a problem with that. Well just continue what were doing and it wont upset any of our preparations.

Were set up as were playing and will just have to wait and see what happens.

Should OConnell fail to recover, OSullivan will keep faith with the engine room which started against Wales, with Mick ODriscoll remaining on the bench.

Second row is a position of enormous strength for Ireland and OKelly, Irelands most capped player with 78 Test appearances, relishes the fierce competition for places.

Lock has been such a competitive area of the team for years. Its great because it keeps you on your toes and draws the best from everybody, he said.

Paul and Donncha are two quite different players. Paul offers good leadership - hes quite a dominant character. Donncha isnt quite as dominant in leadership terms but his work ethic is second to none.

Theyre both really good guys to have around the camp and you cant fault either of them.

Mick is a good guy as well. Hes been around a while and his experience with Perpignan in France had helped him reach this level. If he gets a run Im sure hell be fine.

Saturday will be the last RBS 6 Nations match staged at Lansdowne Road before the worlds oldest rugby ground is redeveloped. OKelly has fond memories of the stadium.

Ive had some great wins at Lansdowne Road and Ive enjoyed playing there, he said.

Teams have got to the point where they dont like coming to Lansdowne Road. Theyre afraid of the elements and apprehensive of what might happen when they get there.

I dont think theres a team who likes playing there except Ireland. The decrepit condition of the place makes it worse for visiting teams while the familiarity of that is comforting for us. Well miss it.