In a press conference yesterday, Johnny Sexton responded to criticism given by Phillip Saint Andre in the French media.
Current Montpellier head coach Philippe Saint Andre said in an interview with a french newspaper that “in fact, to be honest, they are maybe better without him”. Saint Andre was in fact referring to the current Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton.
In a team press conference in Dublin yesterday, Sexton responded to the comments and claims made by Saint Andre. Sexton said “I’m well used to it.. at this stage of the season”. Sexton added “You can’t control what people say, you have to try and do your talking on the pitch”.
Ireland are just off the back of a 29-7 comprehensive opening campaign win against Wales at the Aviva Stadium. Sexton played a key role in orchestrating Ireland’s play, their attack especially.
This time last year, in the week leading up to the Ireland v France fixture in Dublin, a former doctor of Sexton’s while he played at Racing 92 came out in interview saying “I think Johnny Sexton has had somewhere in the region of thirty concussions in his career history, it’s true that it’s huge.” Sexton slammed the comments made, and said that he was “disappointed” and “shocked”.
36 year old Sexton will hope that both himself and Ireland will come away with the win against a French side, who many consider hot favourites for the tournament.
Former France coach Philippe Saint Andre says Ireland may even be a better team without Johnny Sexton… #RTERugby #RTESport
The Irish captain has had his say 👇
Full story ⏩ https://t.co/wH1k9P7ed3 pic.twitter.com/jSo0qkEDHu
— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) February 8, 2022
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