Ireland coach Andy Farrell has rejected suggestions that Johnny Sexton’s consultancy role with the squad is putting pressure on those battling to establish themselves as his successor at fly-half.
Sexton’s 14-year international career ended after last year’s World Cup and Jack Crowley, Ciaran Frawley and newcomer Sam Prendergast are all attempting to claim the number 10 jersey.
The 118-times capped Sexton’s consultancy role during the current autumn series involves kicking work and mentoring players.
Farrell indicated that he is keen for Sexton’s input to continue in the upcoming Six Nations when Simon Easterby will be in charge of the Ireland side as the head coach prepares for next summer’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.
“That couldn’t be further from the truth,” insisted Farrell, when asked whether Sexton’s presence could be an inhibiting presence for Ireland’s fly-half trio after announcing the squad for Saturday’s game against Fiji.
“These guys love sharing their thoughts and more important, Johnny sharing his thoughts on them and all that he’s trying to do.
“And they know that 100% that he’s there to help them and they appreciate that.”
Sexton is not involved with Ireland on match days but Farrell added that “he could be down the line”.
“At the minute, it’s when he can fit it in around his schedule as well. The consultancy part is now working really well.
“[It’s] just for this campaign but we’ll keep on talking. All the signs are good.”
Prendergast, 21, will make his full debut on Saturday after replacing Crowley for the final 20 minutes of last week’s narrow win over Argentina.