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Lions coach Johnny Sexton insists there is no bad blood with Finn Russell following his disparaging remarks about the Scottish fly-half who is favourite to start for Andy Farrell’s team in the key position.
Sexton described Russell as ‘flashy’ last year and said he would select Owen Farrell ahead of him for the Lions tour of Australia. Andy Farrell has since appointed former Ireland international Sexton as an assistant coach and the squad assembled in Dublin this week ahead of their match against Argentina on Friday night.
‘It’s probably been blown out of proportion,’ said Sexton. ‘We had a handshake and a brief chat.
‘He was racing off because those guys who were playing in finals didn’t stay too long. They came in, got their kit, did a little media and were gone.
‘What the Lions demands of you is that if there is a rivalry — which there’s not but if there was — you leave it at the door. I’m here to help him now. I’m here to give him experiences and answer questions.
‘I’m not here to force myself on him or tell him what to do.’
Lions coach Johnny Sexton insists his row with Finn Russell has 'been blown out of proportion'
Scotland's Russell, pictured during the 2021 tour of South Africa, is favourite to start as fly-half
Owen Farrell has returned to Saracens just a year after leaving for French side Racing 92
Meanwhile, Owen Farrell has confirmed his move back to Saracens, just a year after leaving for French side Racing 92. The 33-year-old has signed a two-year deal to end his stint in Top 14.
‘Saracens is my home and the opportunity to come back is one that excites me enormously,’ the former England captain said.
