RETIRING lock Donncha O’Callaghan reflected on his three “rollercoaster” seasons at Worcester Warriors after bidding an emotional farewell at Sixways.

The ex-Ireland international brought the curtain down on his 20-year playing career on Saturday when Warriors hammered Harlequins 44-13 in the Aviva Premiership.

Although O’Callaghan admitted he would be training at Warriors this week ahead of Saturday’s final-day battle at Northampton Saints (4pm), the 39-year-old said he was keen to step aside and let the club’s youngsters get their chance.

Since joining Worcester from Munster in 2015, O’Callaghan made 63 appearances and was appointed club captain for the 2017-18 campaign.

And O’Callaghan insisted he had enjoyed his time at Worcester despite having to fight off the threat of relegation every season.

“It has been a rollercoaster three years for me as we have not kicked on as we would have liked,” O’Callaghan said.

“But you can see the potential here and I know the academy lads coming through are great so if we can leave a vehicle for them to drive on I think they will do an incredible job.

“I think I have found my voice in a leadership role.

“I had always sat behind some incredible leaders, but I didn’t help them.

“If I could go back that would be something I would improve on because in the last three years I have stepped up in that area.

“I have also seen the other side of rugby.

“I have been lucky enough to be part of successful teams.

“You think there is a massive gulf between what successful sides do and what teams down at the bottom of the league do but there really isn’t.

“The top guys just prepare that little bit better.

“But I am glad that I got to see both sides of it.

“It has been enjoyable and I have made incredible friends.”

During his career O’Callaghan earned 94 Ireland caps, winning the Grand Slam in 2009, and went on two British and Irish Lions tours.

In recognition of his services to the game O’Callaghan received a standing ovation from the Sixways faithful when he was introduced onto the field for the final time.

The second row was then applauded off the pitch by players from both sides when he was substituted with 21 minutes to go.

“Before the match there were just the usual nerves that you get before every big game,” O’Callaghan said.

“But when I walked down the tunnel I needed to get away for a few minutes. You realise that was the end of it.

“But I have had a ball.

“I am so lucky to do something that means everything to me for so long and just incredibly proud and grateful as well.”

With Warriors’ top-flight status secured for another season, O’Callaghan said he hoped his teammates would have an “enjoyable week” leading up to the Northampton clash.

“I will be training all week, fighting it out to try to get involved,” O’Callaghan added.

“But it is time now for younger guys to grab their opportunity by the throat and take ownership of this club.”