As the Six Nations gets underway in just under a week, England's Owen Farrell will be hoping to make up for lost time after missing last year's tournament.
After serving a suspension for a dangerous tackle, Farrell will be fresh to captain his country under Steve Borthwick for this first time, who will be out to prove a point after a disappointing 2022, which saw the end of Eddie Jones's time in charge.
One of the Six Nations coaches who know him better than anyone is Ireland head coach Andy Farrell, his dad.
Ireland played some brilliant rugby in 2022, with the tour win of New Zealand the highlight of a great year.
With just over seven months until the World Cup, there is a lot at stake in rugby this year, and it sounds like Andy Farrell has decided to play the mind games early on his son.
Owen Farrell Unhappy With Father's Gifts
In an interview with The Times, Owen Farrell revealed how unhappy he was when Andy Farrell bought his kids Ireland jerseys, along with a Manchester City jerseys. Owen is a Manchester United fan who also represents England.
My eldest has an Ireland shirt. I asked him why he has got one. He said, ‘It’s grandad’s team’ and I said, ‘You can wear a suit like grandad does, then, not the kit.’ They’re into anything sporty and my dad got them a Manchester City top which I’m not happy about as well.
I’ve got two little lads that love running around, going to the park, anything. I don’t know if it’s more me or him, or I’m forcing it on him, but with my eldest [Tommy] I’m trying to get him to the driving range a little bit.
He seems to like it, but I don’t know if that’s me just telling myself that! I like playing golf, but I’ve not got an official handicap. I don’t play enough to hand that many cards in.”
A light hearted gesture from the Ireland coach, as his son Owen didn't appreciate the gifts. It's unusual but welcome to see Andy Farrell is trying to win over the next generation of Farrells.
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