News on Johnny Sexton that should cheer Irish rugby fans no end

He's not through the woods yet but he's running to get there.

Ian Madigan came off the Irish bench, on Sunday, and played a stormer. The Irish out-half performed outstandingly as Ireland beat France for the first time in their World Cup history. Still, news from the Irish camp, today, that Johnny Sexton is on course to face Argentina will lift the nation's spirits. With Paul O'Connell [hamstring], Peter O'Mahony [knee] and Sean O'Brien [one-week suspension] all missing this Sunday's game, Ireland face a mighty task against an Argentina side eyeing their second World Cup semi-final in three tournaments. Sexton had aggravated his abductor [groin] in the 24-9 victory over France and was not fit to continue after 25 minutes. On Wednesday, we were told that he ran 3.5km unencumbered. Today, the news got better. Ireland team manager Mick Kearney commented:

"Johnny did quite a bit of running yesterday and he is expected to train fully tomorrow."

As for Keith Earls - another injury doubt - he sat out training on Tuesday as he "managed his load". He will also train fully tomorrow.