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Madigan can follow in Sexton’s footsteps

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Ian Madigan has all the ingredients to follow in the footsteps of Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton, according to Leinster head coach Matt O’Connor.

Ian Madigan has all the ingredients to follow in the footsteps of Ireland fly-half Jonathan Sexton, according to Leinster head coach Matt O’Connor.

Madigan, who appeared off the bench in Ireland’s RBS 6 Nations victory over France, was omitted from the original touring party but an injury to Ulster No.10 Paddy Jackson saw an almost immediate reprieve.

The 25-year-old has found his game time limited this season despite Sexton’s departure for Racing Metro last summer with Jimmy Gopperth arriving at the RDS.

And while O’Connor admits that Madigan has struggled to produce his best on a consistent basis this season, he believes the summer tour to Argentina will do him the world of good.

“You want [the players] to play at the highest level, and experience what Test rugby is all about, because, ultimately, that is what makes them better,” said O’Connor.

“If they’re achieving at that level, when they come back to our environment, they have got those experiences to draw upon.

“He’s versatile, he kicks goals, he’s a fantastic footballer, and there’s no reason he can’t develop into that Johnny Sexton-type figure.”

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