Irish given Sexton boost for Italian job

IRELAND fly-half Johnny Sexton is expected to be fully fit to face Italy next Saturday.

The fly-half was taken off in the first half of Ireland’s win over Scotland and did not return to action after failing an HIA (head injury assessment).

“Johnny is fine, he trained fully on Friday and will be ready to go,” said defence coach Andy Farrell. “He has had no symptoms at all, no complaints throughout the week.”

Sexton, 33, suffered an ankle injury and a concussion inside the opening 20 minutes in Edinburgh and was replaced by Joey Carbery.

Leinster No.10 Sexton, who has started Ireland’s last ten Six Nations games, was named 2018 world rugby player of the year after winning the Grand Slam and helping his province to a European and Pro14 double.

Ireland will also be able to call upon scrum-half Kieran Marmion for the remainder of the Six Nations after he made his return to action for Connacht yesterday against the Cheetahs.

Marmion had ankle surgery a few days after starting Ireland’s historic win over the All Blacks in the absence of injured Conor Murray.

Meanwhile Ireland and Leinster flanker Sean O’Brien is relishing the challenge of making London Irish one of the best teams in England when he joins after the World Cup.

The Leinster flanker, 31,will join up with former Ireland head coach Declan Kidney and Les Kiss at the club.

The two-time British and Irish Lion said: “I’ll roll up the sleeves and use my experience to re-establish London Irish as a top club in England.

“After speaking with Declan it was obvious the ambition London Irish have as a club. It’s a club that’s been around for a long time and there’s an obvious connection to Ireland with some greats of Irish rugby having previously worn the jersey.

“For now my concentration remains solely with Leinster and Ireland but it’s an exciting challenge that awaits.”

Former Munster fly-half Ian Keatley is already at the club.