Jonny Sexton Trains, But There Are Fresh Doubts About Another Irish Player

Johnny Sexton took part in training today but doubts still surround his involvement in Sunday’s World Cup quarter-final with Argentina.

Keith Earls sat out training today in Cardiff, with speculation surrounding his fitness as Ireland delay calling up a replacement for Jared Payne.

Sexton was substituted before half-time in Ireland’s 24-9 win over France after a heavy tackle. Scans on his groin have detected no major issues and the Ireland fly-half undertook some non-contact training today.

“Johnny did about three and a half kilometers running,” said scrum coach Greg Feek. “That’s a positive so we’re quietly confident. We’ll see how he goes again on Friday.”

There was less information on Keith Earls, who appeared to suffer an arm injury during the second half in Cardiff

“We’re just going to see how he goes. We’re looking after him a bit and it’s not too bad so we’ll see how he goes on Friday as well,” said Feek.

“He’s just a bit battered. It’s nothing too major. It’s just, at this stage, you want to do the best you can to get everyone fit and available.”

Rhys Ruddock and Mike McCarthy both trained with the squad today after being called up to replace Peter O’Mahony and Paul O’Connell.

Friday’s session will be the last chance for head coach Joe Schmidt to assess his injury-hit squad as the players have a day off on Thursday.