Rugby - Sexton in contention for Ireland Six Nations return

Rugby Union - Ireland v Wales - RBS Six Nations Championship 2016 - Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland - 7/2/16 Johnny Sexton of Ireland lines up a kick at goal Reuters / Eddie Keogh EDITORIAL USE ONLY. - RTX26B6F

(Reuters) - Johnny Sexton is in contention to return to the Ireland team in Saturday's Six Nations match against Italy in Rome after being sidelined through injury for the opener in Scotland.

Ireland team manager Paul Dean said on Monday that the British and Irish Lions fly-half, who has been suffering from a calf problem, was back running and would be monitored through the week.