Johnny Sexton ‘used to competition’ as he aims to win Ireland place back

Captain Johnny Sexton insists competition for Ireland’s number 10 jersey is nothing new as he battles to regain his starting spot.

The 36-year-old is hoping for a recall for Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations clash with Italy after overcoming the minor hamstring issue which kept him out of the 30-24 defeat to France.

Joey Carbery deputised in Paris and staked his claim to retain the role by producing another assured performance following impressive displays last summer and in the autumn.

Veteran Sexton has been his country’s leading fly-half for more than a decade and is not fazed by the latest threat to his position.

“Look, I’m well used to competition, I’ve had it my whole career,” he said.

“Early doors with Ronan O’Gara and Felipe (Contepomi) in Ireland and in Leinster. And then, when you get the jersey, you have always someone else that you’re competing with.

“Over the years (there has been) Ian Madigan, Ian McKinley, Paddy Jackson, Joey.

Of course, I respect all other 10s. You just have to focus on yourself and make sure you're fit and firing when you do get the chance to play- Johnny Sexton

“Joey’s been around a long time. He’s 26 now so I’ve been used to it for the last five years. It’s nothing new, nothing’s changed for me.

“What’s important to me is to make sure I prepare as best as I can. There’s no point in worrying too much about what other people are doing.

“Of course, I respect all other 10s. You just have to focus on yourself and make sure you’re fit and firing when you do get the chance to play.”

Sexton, who has 102 caps for his country, watched on from the stands of the Stade de France on February 12 as Irish Grand Slam dreams evaporated.

He was injured in training three days before the contest, having