‘It’s a bumpy road at 10’: Johnny Sexton issues reality check to emerging out-halves

Sexton has returned to training after a recent hip issue, declaring himself fit and ready for the games against Japan, New Zealand, and Argentina

RIGHT ATTITUDE: ‘I am always trying to stay on top of things, doing those one per cents that will hopefully make a difference. It’s been far from perfect, every athlete, every rugby player gets injured and I’ve done that but it’s part of the game as well.’  Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

It might strike as ironic from a man poised to make his 100th appearance for Ireland but Johnny Sexton has highlighted the ability to overcome setbacks as among the key attributes required to prosper as an out-half in the modern game.

Sexton has won multiple trophies with Leinster and Ireland and shone with the British and Irish Lions in a professional career spanning 15 years and counting. Now 36 years of age, he remains by a street his country’s first-choice 10.