Jones not averse to targeting Ireland fly-half Sexton as Itoje prepared for full debut
England head coach Eddie Jones has hinted that his Grand Slam-chasing side will target recuperating Ireland fly-half Johnny Sexton during tomorrow’s Six Nations showdown at Twickenham.
Sexton suffered neck and shoulder injuries during Ireland’s 10-9 defeat to France earlier this month, and Jones makes no apologies for adopting the policy of attacking what he believes to be Ireland’s weakest defenders.
“Sexton is an interesting one, they’ve talked about him having a whiplash injury which is not a great thing to talk about,” said Australian Jones. “I’m sure his mother and father would be worried about that.
“There are 15 players out there. Are we supposed to not run at one player? Hang on, he’s got a red dot on his head, we don’t run at him.
“I’m not saying Sexton is a weak defender. Maybe France did. We’re going to be targeting players in the Ireland side.”
Lock Maro Itoje, 21, is set to make his full England debut after being named in Jones’ starting XV, while prop Joe Marler has been recalled at the expense of Mako Vunipola.