Cheekbone injury makes Johnny Sexton a doubtful starter for Ireland's Six Nations campaign

Ireland skipper Johnny Sexton is in doubt for the start of the Six Nations following a cheekbone injury.

The 37-year-old sustained the injury during Leinster's United Rugby Championship game against Connacht last weekend as he tackled Jarrad Butler in the second half of the game.

Leinster in a statement released revealed that Sexton underwent a procedure to address the injury and will be assessed to ascertain the timeline of his return.

With Sexton announcing that he will retire from his playing career post World Cup in France, the upcoming campaign is set to be his last Six Nations tournament but now he is set to miss their tournament opener against Wales at least.

In the absence of Sexton, Andy Farrell is set to look for Joey Carbery, Jack Crowley and Ross Byrne as possible replacement with Jack Carty, Billy Burns and Harry Byrne also in contention.