Wednesday 27 January 2016 14:48, UK
Neil Jenkins says Wales' chances of beating Ireland in their Six Nations opener next month would improve if Jonny Sexton misses the game.
Sexton suffered a head injury in the early minutes of Leinster's 51-10 European Champions Cup defeat at the hands of Wasps on Saturday and his return to action will be governed by the sport's concussion protocols.
The fly-half missed Ireland's Six Nations opener last year, again with a concussion issue, and he is due to train away from the remainder of Joe Schmidt's squad at the start of their pre-tournament camp.
According to a statement from Ireland Rugby, Sexton has already passed the first two tests and will take the third on Tuesday.
"In terms of the other 10s coming in they've got good players, but I've no doubt it will affect him," said Wales' kicking coach Jenkins.
"Johnny's a world-class player with his all-round ability and his all-round game. He's very good defensively and troubles you no end with his kicking game, whether he goes to the corners, goes aerially or attack kicks.
"He puts you under pressure with ball in hand and his kicking game - and when he plays he's a threat to any side."
Wales have injury problems of their own to consider ahead of the February 7 clash in Dublin, with captain Sam Warburton (ankle) and back Liam Williams (foot) not yet at 100 per cent.
Warburton returned to action on Friday, playing his first game since November for the Cardiff Blues against Calvisano, and Williams is still sidelined with the recurrence of a problem he suffered at the World Cup in October, although he could play for the Scarlets.
"Gats (Wales coach Warren Gatland) will have a discussion with the players and their regions but Liam needs game time and Sam has stated he too needs game time," Jenkins said.
"I would have thought Liam plays this week for the Scarlets at Connacht but the final decision will be down to the boss, Gats. We will have to see how Liam plays and whether he plays the full game. We will have to see how the game unfolds."
Jenkins is also concerned about the lack of playing time Rhys Priestland has had since his move to Bath, with the 29-year-old only starting three games and spending most of his time backing up England No 10 George Ford.
"It's obviously an issue with Rhys not playing much rugby," Jenkins said. "He's maybe one that needs rugby but, from our point of view, he's a fantastic rugby player.
"But lack of game time is a worry. It's what it is, but Rhys seems pretty fresh and in good spirits."
