Johnny Sexton makes feelings clear on Owen Farrell in tell all interview
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Johnny Sexton couldn't resist testing the waters with Lions boss Andy Farrell, despite hanging up his boots after a glittering career.
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In a candid chat with The Times, the 39-year-old revealed how he cheekily messaged Farrell about making an unlikely return for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.
"When Andy got the job as Lions coach, I texted him and said, 'If I play for my club, would you consider me?' He just wrote back, 'No,'" Sexton admitted. "I'd say he's glad to see the back of having to deal with me every day."
Farrell v Russell: Sexton weighs in on the number 10 debate
With retirement giving him a new perspective, Sexton had no hesitation in picking Owen Farrell as his fly-half for the Wallabies showdown.
"I'd pick Owen Farrell," Sexton said. "Who do you want in there when the going gets tough? Test-match animals. I know who the media would want: Finn Russell, Marcus Smith, the flashy…"
But Sexton was quick to backtrack on his "flashy" comment, reserving special praise for Marcus Smith.
"Marcus, I think, is a generational talent. He looks flashy, but I think he manages the game really well," Sexton added. "I think he can light up a game. But for me, I'd like Owen. He can do some remarkable things."
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"If Owen Farrell were Irish…" – Sexton's ultimate praise
While Farrell's move to Racing 92 has made him ineligible for England, Andy Farrell has confirmed that players based in France will be considered for the Lions tour. That's music to Sexton's ears, who offered a glowing endorsement of his former team-mate.
"If Owen Farrell were Irish, he'd be considered the greatest player that we've had. An amazing competitor," Sexton said.
"But for some reason, he just didn't get that [respect]. He's one of the best team-mates I've ever had. He's one of the best players I've ever played with. It's tough to see him not playing international rugby.
"He's someone that should still be playing for England and captaining them. I have nothing but admiration for him. When you know him as a person, you see the real Owen Farrell."
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