Stats say Sexton is Europe’s best back

THOSE negotiating a new contract for Jonathan Sexton have been handed another bargaining chip.

Statistics released yesterday prove the Leinster fly-half is the top performing back in European rugby this season with impressive figures in defence, attack and from the kicking tee.

In the Heineken Cup pool stages, Sexton successfully kicked 11 of 12 penalty kicks and 14 of 16 conversions he attempted, for a success rate of 89%.