Johnny Sexton approached to return to Ireland set-up in mentor role

The ex-Ireland captain could be involved as soon as the Autumn Nations Series.

Sexton, who retired from professional rugby last year, is Ireland's record holder for test points with 1,101, placing him fourth all-time in international rugby union.

Ireland boss Andy Farrell looks set to give the 39-year-old a part-time or freelance coaching role, hoping that his deep well of experience and talent could help the squad's young kickers excel.

In an interview with the Irish Times earlier this year, Sexton said that coaching was not in his immediate plans, insisting:

"I would never say never; you never know what life is going to throw at you. Coaching wouldn't be my plan right away."

However, this particular role could suit the former Leinster star very nicely, as it will only involve working during important match weeks.

According to a new report by the Irish Times, Sexton won't have much involvement with the squad as a whole but will act more as a mentor to Jack Crowley, Ciarán Frawley and the uncapped Sam Prendergast.

The move could be of great benefit to Munster's Crowley specifically, who has enjoyed the lion’s share of starts at 10 since Sexton’s retirement and is likely to become his long-term replacement.

Considering Sexton's availability, he could start the role as soon as next month's Autumn Nations Series, with the focus of the job developing into preparations for the 2025 Six Nations next February.

Since his retreat from the sport at the end of last year, Sexton has been busy recounting the ups and downs of his playing days for his newly-released autobiography Obsessed.

Released earlier this month, the book became a major talking point in the world of rugby after the legendary kicker aimed a jibe at a couple of the New Zealand players who had taunted him after beating Ireland in the World Cup quarter-finals last year.