The IRFU has issued a statement this evening in an attempt to clarify some of the media reports surrounding Johnny Sexton's return from a concussion injury.

The Union says that the out-half has been symptom free for the past two months and has been cleared to return to competitive rugby by independent neurologists in France and Ireland, the concussion review committee for the French Rugby Federation as well as the medical teams with both Racing Metro and Ireland.

"Player Welfare is the primary concern of the Ireland Medical and Management Team. All of the medical experts directly involved in the management of Johnny Sexton are satisfied that he is fit to return to the field of play," said the union in a statement.

"In light of some disappointing and inaccurate commentary in the media by individuals with no medical expertise, the IRFU would like to clarify some facts pertaining to the medical management of Ireland international Johnny Sexton."

Earlier today, former France international Laurent Benezech told Newstalk Lunchtime he was "really pissed off" that Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt had picked Sexton to start against Les Bleus this weekend.