IRELAND OUT-HALF Johnny Sexton has been stood down from playing and contact training in rugby until February, his club have confirmed today.

The Racing Metro man has not played since clashing heads with Rob Kearney during Ireland’s November win over Australia.

With his symptoms continuing after his fourth concussion in a year, he must now consult with two independent neurologists after the 12-week break (from the date of the concussion) who will make a decision on whether he is fit to return.

The date the Top 14 club put on the consultation is February 7, the day of Ireland’s opening fixture of the Six Nations. Should Sexton be given the all-clear, he would be available for selection the following weekend, when Ireland host France.

Source: Colm O’Neill/INPHO

“It is most unfortunate and I feel bad for the club,” Sexton said in a statement on the club website,.“but I’m still not feeling 100%, and with injuries like this it’s not worth taking any risks.”

He added: “Today I’m feeling very disappointed for the club and my teammates that I won’t be able to contribute to the team for such a long period, but I’ll make sure I come back better than ever, and hopefully make up for lost time when I’m fit to do so.”

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