GALLERY: The legend that is Paul O’Connell down through the years

So long, Paulie.

Throughout his 108 caps, O'Connell has been arguably Ireland greatest ever lock and has helped his country to three Six Nations Championships, as well as four Triple Crowns and the memorable Grand Slam in 2009. This gallery looks at the 35-year-old's career from his earliest days with Munster and Ireland comrade Ronan O'Gara, to last year's memorable Six Nations triumph when he lifted the trophy in tandem with Brian O'Driscoll. [caption id="attachment_515304" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Paul O'Connell tackled by Ronan O'Gara

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515305" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Ireland Rugby Tour 2003 Training

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515306" align="aligncenter" width="474"] A tearful O'Connell playing for Munster

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515307" align="aligncenter" width="474"] A dejected Paul O'Connell after leaving the field through injury on his debut.

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515308" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Paul O'Connell of Ireland celebrates his try back in 2002. 

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515309" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Brian O'Driscoll and Paul O'Connell

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515310" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Paul O'Connell dejected after Ireland's defeat to Australia in 2008. 

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515311" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Paul O'Connell supported by Rory Best in 2007. 

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515312" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Paul O'Connell celebrates winning the RBS Six Nations Grand Slam in 2009.

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515313" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Paul O'Connell lifts the trophy in 2009 with John Hayes, Stephen Ferris and Jerry Flannery.

[/caption] [caption id="attachment_515314" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Ireland's Paul O'Connell and Brian O'Driscoll celebrate after 2014 Six Nations win.[/caption]