Worries for Leinster and Ireland as Sexton assessed for 'fair old whack' on cheekbone 

A collision with Connacht back-row Jarrad Butler saw Sexton being withdrawn inside the final quarter

Jarrad Butler of Connacht is tackled by Jonathan Sexton of Leinster during the United Rugby Championship between Leinster and Connacht at RDS Arena in Dublin. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen has confirmed that Johnny Sexton will be assessed as quickly as possible after the Ireland captain was withdrawn with a facial injury in the 64th minute of their 41-12 win over Connacht at the RDS last night.

Making his first start for the province in more than two months - he recently appeared off the bench in a routine Heineken Champions Cup victory against Gloucester at the same venue - Sexton played his part as Leinster extended their cushion at the United Rugby Championship summit to eight points with a 11th consecutive triumph.