Johnny Sexton: 'I was fine to continue playing after clash of heads'

Johnny Sexton has insisted that he was "fine" to continue playing in Ireland's 18-11 victory over France following his clash of heads with centre Mathieu Bastareaud.

The Leinster fly-half, one of two changes to Ireland's starting lineup for this evening's match in Dublin, produced a man-of-the-match display by kicking 15 points for his side.

His return to action after a 12-week concussion layoff was almost cut short when he banged his head in the second half and required stitches to help stem the flow of blood.

However, Sexton has eased concerns that he should have been taken off following the incident, telling reporters: "It was just a glancing blow. I just needed a couple of stitches but I felt fine after it."

Unbeaten Ireland return to Six Nations action when they take on England in a potential tournament decider the weekend after next.