Johnny Sexton: Ireland captain injury doubt for Six Nations opener against Wales
- Published
Leinster's Johnny Sexton received treatment after sustaining the injury against Connacht
Ireland captain Johnny Sexton is a doubt for the Six Nations opener against Wales next month because of a facial injury.
The 37-year-old Leinster fly-half has had a "procedure" on a cheekbone injury sustained in Sunday's URC derby win over Connacht.
Leinster have not set a date for a potential return.
Ireland start their Six Nations campaign against Wales on 4 February at Principality Stadium.
Sexton was injured in a clash of heads as he attempted to tackle Connacht's Jarrad Butler.
"It's good that he's had the procedure - now you set your timelines and goals, whatever they may be," said Leinster assistant coach Robin McBryde.
Ireland host champions France in their second game on 11 February followed by an away encounter against Italy a fortnight later.
Despite Sexton's advancing years, the fly-half remains vital to Ireland's prospects of making an overdue World Cup impact at this year's tournament in France.
Ireland coach Andy Farrell has attempted to groom several successors to Sexton but the veteran remains the country's first-choice by some distance in the crucial number 10 role.
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