Jonathan Sexton expected to make South Africa game

Irish coach Joe Schmidt can breathe more easily with news that outhalf Johnny Sexton is expected to make a full recovery from "tightness" in his thigh and play against South Africa this weekend.

Sexton retired from Racing Metro's match against Top 14 side Oyonnax with coach Laurent Labit describing Sexton's injury as a "tweak".

However Ireland team manager Mick Kearney yesterday dismissed concerns and said the playmaker would be available on Saturday.

“It was intended that Johnny Sexton would only play a portion of the game for Racing on Saturday night so he played 40 minutes and he came off,” said Kearney.

“He has some tightness but nothing of concern. He will train later on today.”

Kearney described Mike Ross as "a bit of a concern", outlining how the tighthead prop has not played for around 30 days since Leinster's game against Munster at Aviva Stadium.

“It is a concern. He has done very well over the last week or 10 days. He has met all his markers. We are reasonably confident that he will be available for selection.”

The Irish manager also gave a run through of the rest of the injuries in the squad.

“Gordon D’Arcy trained fully on Friday and has shown no ill effects so he should train this week,” said Kearney.

"Rob Kearney came through Friday's session strongly and is expected to take a full part in training this week.

“Jack McGrath trained fully last week and again is expected to be training fully this week.

"Stuart Olding and Tommy Bowe completed their return to play protocols. Stuart played a full 80 minutes for Ulster on Saturday. Tommy took part in the open session on Friday in Aviva and both are expected to train fully this week.

"Chris Henry and Rhys Ruddock were rested on Friday due to their heavy workloads in previous weeks.

"Rory Best has a tight calf and will be monitored over the course of the week. He will do modified work today and will be assessed as the week goes on.

“Mike Ross did some running as well as multi directional work as well as static team work on Friday and will be introduced to fully training over the nex few days. He will be closely monitored but the prognosis is positive and we are reasonably confident he will be available for selection.”