Ireland planning to have Johnny Sexton and James Ryan involved in 'must-win' clash with France

Ireland assistant coach Simon Easterby: 'For us to stay alive in the competition, it's a must-win'

Ireland’s Johnny Sexton gets treatment from Dr. Ciaran Cosgrave and physio Keith Fox. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Ireland must prepare for a cup final against France this Sunday if they are to get their Guinness Six Nations campaign back on track, assistant coach Simon Easterby said on Tuesday.

An opening-round loss to Wales garnered a losing bonus point in a 21-16 defeat in Cardiff last Sunday, despite having Peter O’Mahony sent off after 14 minutes. It does, though, leave Andy Farrell’s men needing a victory if they are to retain any hopes of securing the championship title.