Farrell: We have the foundation to build on

VETERAN fly-half Johnny Sexton will captain Ireland for the third successive Six Nations after overcoming ankle and knee issues suffered in November.

Sexton appeared off the bench in Leinster’s 89-7 Champions Cup demolition of Montpellier last Sunday and continued his fine form in yesterday’s win over Bath.

Munster fly-half Joey Carbery is named despite recently being sidelined by a fractured elbow, but James Lowe is missing due to a muscle injury.

Ulster lock Kieran Treadwell, who won three caps in 2017, has been recalled by Ireland coach Andy Farrell who has named uncapped backs Michael Lowry and Mack Hansen in his 37-man squad.

Wing Hansen and versatile Lowry have been in impressive form for Connacht and Ulster respectively. Treadwell replaces Ultan Dillane, who is omitted from the squad after confirming that he will leave Connacht to play rugby abroad next season.

The Irish stretched their winning run to eight games by beating Japan and Argentina in November, either side of a statement win over New Zealand.

Head coach Farrell said: “In November we challenged the group to get up to speed quickly so that the team could perform at international level. The same will apply for this Six Nations campaign.

“We have a strong squad with competition for places across the board, there is a nice blend of experienced internationals and guys who have had their first taste of this level in the past 12 months.

“The games in November gave us a good foundation to build on and areas where we know we will have to improve.

“It will be an exciting Championship with so many strong squads and impressive performances across the board during the autumn.”

Ireland begin the Championship on Saturday, February 5 when defending champions Wales visit the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Jacob Stockdale will miss the entire Six Nations after undergoing ankle surgery while fellow wing Lowe is expected to be sidelined for a number of weeks.