Ireland rugby legend Johnny Sexton has opened up about his entirely new role off the field – with the packaging company Ardagh Group.

Ardagh Group is a global supplier of infinitely recyclable metal and glass packaging for brand owners around the world. 

It operates 62 metal and glass production facilities in 16 countries, employing approximately 20,000 people with sales of approximately $9.4 billion in 2023.

Sexton had been working part-time as a commercial manager, before taking on a full-time job since his retirement.

The legendary fly-half played 118 times for Ireland, winning five Six Nations Championships. In 2018, he was voted World Rugby Player of the Year.

He hung up his boots following a devastating Rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat to New Zealand last year.

When asked what he is doing now, Sexton told talkSPORT: “I’ve got a full-time job. We’re rugby players, not like you boys (Alan Brazil and Gabby Agbonlahor] putting our feet up.

“It’s with a packaging company on the commercial side of that. It’s been eye-opening and a massive transition.

“I’ve been enjoying it. Doing something new and put myself in that environment and challenge myself.

“It’s a routine, that’s what I’m used to. How do I get my gym in, my few rounds of golf a month, I play in a seven-a-side soccer team too. We have a game a week and have a few pints after.

“That’s special because it’s being part of a team again. You find ways to adapt.

“I played until I was 38, but you have to move on and not feel sorry for yourself. I played with guys who retired when they were 26 with a career-ending knee injury and had their best years ahead.

“I am very grateful for the time I had.”