Johnny Sexton backs Jack Crowley but warns Ireland fly-half ahead of England clash

Sexton says Crowley’s Italy impact was impressive but starting against England demands control, composure and consistency from kickoff

Johnny Sexton on Jack Crowley's performance against Italy: "He wasn’t setting anything up, he was getting the ball to the space, when it was there, in the moment, and that’s a big development for him." Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Johnny Sexton praised Jack Crowley’s performance off the bench against Italy but warned the Ireland fly-half he will have to perform to the same levels from minute one at Twickenham if he gets the number 10 jersey to face England.

Crowley appears to be the front runner to get the nod from Andy Farrell ahead of last Saturday’s starter Sam Prendergast when the Ireland boss names his side before departure from Dublin Airport on Thursday morning.