Leo Cullen plays down Johnny Sexton’s absence

Leo Cullen has played down fears of Johnny Sexton being forced to take an extended break from rugby, with the Leinster head coach suggesting the 31-year-old will be out of action for around three to four weeks.

Sexton’s future and fitness have been the subject of speculation since Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt suggested that the out-half may need time out from competitive action following a run of injuries.

Cullen yesterday confirmed that the Dubliner suffered a grade one hamstring strain in last month’s Guinness Series loss to New Zealand, with that injury coming just two months after Sexton’s return from shoulder surgery and a previous hamstring problem.