Andy Farrell rests Johnny Sexton but insists Lions still an option for veteran ten

The Ireland head coach has taken the decision to give the likes of Sexton, Cian Healy and Keith Earls the summer off but believes they could still get the call from Warren Gatland, if needed

Head Coach Andy Farrell

Andy Farrell insists that Jonathan Sexton’s absence from Ireland’s summer squad does not end the out-half’s chances of getting the call from Warren Gatland and the British and Irish Lions, should that need arise.

Sexton was the main name of note to be omitted from the 37-man national panel for Tests against Japan and the USA in July. Others to be given time off are Keith Earls and Cian Healy as Farrell looks to blood younger men.