Captaincy won't affect preparation for James Ryan, new skipper insists

He had been handed the role for 52 minutes last Friday night when Sexton was forced from the field with a hamstring problem during the Autumn Nations Cup opener at home to Wales

James Ryan in action against Wales. When Johnny Sexton came off injured, Ryan took over as captain - a role he continues in this week. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

If James Ryan’s reaction to hearing he would lead Ireland against England at Twickenham this Saturday is any guide, his team-mates can expect a no-frills captaincy.

For those who play alongside the 24-year-old second row, yesterday’s news that Ryan will stand in for the injured Johnny Sexton as Ireland skipper this weekend will see this latest development in his career as a logical next step and deal with it as matter of factly as the man himself appeared to do when told of his promotion by head coach Andy Farrell.