I’ve still got the legs to make next Lions tour says Sexton
JOHNNY Sexton has targeted a place on the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour insisting there is still enough mileage left in his legs.
The 88-cap Ireland international will be 36 by the time Warren Gatland takes the Lions to South Africa.
Even though there will be fierce competition for the Lions No.10 jersey with Owen Farrell, Gareth Anscombe, Dan Biggar, Finn Russell and George Ford all vying for places, Sexton is confident he can force his way into contention.
“It would be massive to make the next Lions tour,” said Sexton.
“It’s been a goal of mine since the last one finished.
To get on a third Lions tour would be extra special and I am really motivated to do that.
“The most important thing for me now is to start playing well for Leinster and to get Ireland back on the right course.
“The body feels really good and I’m still very hungry to achieve new things. We’ll see where I’m at in 18 months time but I’m confident I can make it.”
Sexton was part of an Ireland team which exited the Rugby World Cup at the quarter-final stage with a thrashing at the hands of New Zealand.
With head coach Joe Schmidt having moved on he is confident his successor Andy Farrell is the right man for the job.
Sexton said: “Everybody is looking forward to working with Andy Farrell. Everyone I’ve ever spoken to about him have been extremely positive.
“I’m looking forward to meeting him and learning from him and hopefully he will bring some new ideas.
“I’m confident we can bounce back in the Six Nations but first things first I want to help Leinster do well in Europe.”