Jonathan Sexton suffered 'whiplash injury' during Ireland's defeat by France in Paris

Johnny Sexton suffered a 'whiplash injury' to his neck and shoulder in Ireland's 10-9 RBS 6 Nations defeat to France, according to head coach Joe Schmidt.

Fly-half Sexton appeared dazed on leaving the Stade de France field after several questionable hits on Saturday, but now Ireland boss Schmidt has moved to downplay any concussion fears.

Sexton was stood down for 12 weeks in late 2014 owing to four concussions inside 12 months, and has had several further head-injury concerns since.

The 30-year-old continues to shrug off whatever hits come his way however, including neck trouble from a blow to the head in Ireland's 16-16 Six Nations draw with Wales two weeks ago.

'Johnny Sexton, with his neck and shoulder, it's more of a whiplash injury,' said Schmidt.

'And he is certainly feeling a lot better, 48 hours post-game.'

On Monday, French second row Yoann Maestri was issued with a citing commissioner warning for using his shoulder in a tackle which lifted Sexton off his feet in the 13th minute of Saturday's match, saying the tackle fell 'just short of' warranting a red card.
Source: AFP