Ireland v Japan: Sexton expects changes for Dublin meeting with Japan

Ireland assistant Johnny Sexton anticipates changes in personnel for Saturday’s game against Japan in Dublin after the weekend loss to New Zealand.

The encounter with Eddie Jones’ Brave Blossoms is the first of three upcoming games at the Aviva Stadium on consecutive Saturdays, with matches against Australia and South Africa to follow in subsequent weeks.

Sexton says squad rotation will play a part in team selection for the meeting with Japan, but some players may lose their starting berth in head coach Andy Farrell’s side as a result of under-par performances in the loss to the All Blacks.

“It’ll be a bit of giving guys a chance for sure, some of it will be selection, guys getting a chance because others didn’t play that well at the weekend,” said Sexton.

“It’s always a mixture and we need to make sure we pick a team that goes out and tries to win the game. It’s an important game for us, as all these games are, with regard to rankings and with the World Cup draw coming up.

“Picking a team to win first and foremost, but at the same time Andy knows that in two years’ time we’re going to a World Cup and we need to have 40 players ready to go.”

Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey is a doubt for Saturday’s game after being forced off in the second half at Soldier Field with a groin injury and his fitness is being monitored throughout the week.

“He [McCloskey] was excellent for the time that he was on the pitch. It’s unfortunate for him that he picked up a little strain but I don’t think it’s too bad,” reflected the former Ireland fly-half.

“He’s doing a bit of work with the physios today [Tuesday] while the rest of us were training so hoping that he will be back involved, whether it’s this week or next week I’m not sure.

“I haven’t heard from Andy yet but he was very impressive on the pitch. He started the season amazingly well and it’s great for us to have another centre in the mix.”