IRFU issue statement on 'inaccurate' reporting of Johnny Sexton concussion issue

Jonathan Sexton at Ireland training during the week.

The IRFU have taken the unusual step of issuing a statement to correct what they have described as "disappointing and inaccurate commentary" on the return from injury of out-half Jonathan Sexton.

Sexton starts for Ireland against France in the RBS Six Nations on Saturday - his first match following a 12 week lay-off due to concussion.

Concussion is a hot topic in international rugby at the moment and questions were asked of the management this week about the wisdom of starting a player just back from concussion rather than introducing him from the bench.

The statement reads in full:

"Player Welfare is the primary concern of the Ireland Medical and Management Team. All of the medical experts directly involved in the management of Johnny Sexton are satisfied that he is fit to return to the field of play.

In light of some disappointing and inaccurate commentary in the media by individuals with no medical expertise, the IRFU would like to clarify some facts pertaining to the medical management of Ireland international Johnny Sexton. Johnny has been symptom free for 2 months.

Johnny was cleared to return to play on Thursday February 5, 2015 by:

1) Independent neurologists in France and Ireland

2) The FFR concussion review committee

3) The Racing Metro medical team

4) The Ireland Medical team."