Johnny Sexton insists he is ‘here to help’ Finn Russell despite past Lions criticism
The GuardianTuesday, June 17, 2025 at 12:00:31 AM
Johnny Sexton, now an assistant coach for the British & Irish Lions, has put past tensions with Finn Russell behind him, emphasizing he’s ready to support the Scottish fly-half. The two had a well-publicized rift after Sexton was left out of the 2021 Lions squad in favor of Russell, but they’ve since reconciled. Sexton downplayed the drama, calling it "blown out of proportion," and is focused on teamwork ahead of the upcoming tour.
Editor’s Note: In elite sports, egos and past conflicts can overshadow team dynamics—but this story shows how pros move forward. Sexton’s willingness to bury the hatchet matters because the Lions’ success hinges on unity, especially with Russell likely playing a key role. It’s a reminder that even high-profile spats don’t have to derail collaboration when there’s a bigger goal at stake.
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