Johnny Sexton creating ‘real positivity’ when mentoring Ireland fly-halves

Ireland are due to host New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji and Australia this month.

By contributor By Ed Elliot, PA

Published Nov 1, 2024

Last updated Jan 30

Johnny Sexton applauds fans following Ireland's exit at the 2023 Rugby World Cup — Johnny Sexton retired following the 2023 Rugby World Cup (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Former captain Johnny Sexton has created “real positivity” in Ireland’s camp after returning to perform a part-time mentoring role.

The 39-year-old, who retired following last year’s Rugby World Cup, has spent time with Andy Farrell’s squad at their Dublin training base ahead of this month’s Autumn Nations Series.

With Ireland preparing to host New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji and Australia at the Aviva Stadium, Sexton is expected to make regular visits in order to further impart his expertise.

Johnny Sexton, left, and Andy Farrell celebrate winning the 2023 Guinness Six Nations — Johnny Sexton, left, has been invited into Ireland’s coaching set-up with by head coach Andy Farrell (Brian Lawless/PA)

Defence coach Simon Easterby said: “He’s definitely going to be involved over the next few weeks, transitioning in and out, lending his support to certain individuals within the team.