Paul O'Connell: Johnny Sexton ban could be silver lining for Ireland

Sexton will miss the three warm-up games against Italy this Saturday, England and Samoa.

FORWARD THINKING: Forwards Coach Paul O'Connell. Pic Credit ©INPHO/Ben Brady

Paul O’Connell believes Johnny Sexton will be concerned about missing all three World Cup warm-ups because of suspension but the Ireland forwards coach thinks the veteran’s absence could be a silver lining for the team’s ambitions.

Sexton’s ban, accrued from his conduct after Leinster’s Heineken Champions Cup loss to La Rochelle in May, will see him miss the three warm-up games against Italy this Saturday, England and Samoa.