Johnny Sexton is back and cleared to play in Ireland’s next Six Nations clash after Italy

I love it when a plan comes together.

Joe Schmidt must be lighting up a cigar this afternoon as news filters through that Johnny Sexton is back. Almost. The former Racing Metro star will make a comeback to haunt the French at the Aviva next week during the champions' first home clash of the Six Nations. The 29-year-old has been out with concussion and hasn't featured since the victory over Australia back in November but, after a meeting with a neurologist this week, Sexton has been cleared to play from next week on. Ian Keatley will take the number 10 jersey tomorrow in Rome but, with Sexton back in the ranks, Joe Schmidt - we're sorry to say - will have to put up with even more favourites chat.