Ireland assistant coach Johnny Sexton has broken his silence on the Tadhg Furlong controversy, throwing his support behind the prop ahead of a disciplinary hearing.

The 33-year-old was cited on Monday following an alleged groin grab during Leinster's United Rugby Championship win over Munster.

Munster back row Gavin Coombes raised the complaint with referee Andrew Brace late in the first half.

However, TMO Colin Stanley could not find any evidence of the alleged incident during the match.

Furlong has since been cited and could miss Ireland's upcoming Nations Championship fixtures if found guilty.

Johnny Sexton backs Tadhg Furlong

Speaking after Ireland's training session on Tuesday, Sexton made it clear where he stands.

"In terms of the incident, I can't say too much about it obviously, because the disciplinary process is ongoing," he said.

"But I know Tadhg as a person, first and foremost, and I don't think that's something he would have done.

"So I just have to back him in that regard, but we'll see what happens with the disciplinary hearing."

The former Ireland captain played alongside Furlong for both Leinster and Ireland before retiring in 2023.

Sexton also praised the tighthead's form following an injury-hit campaign last season.

"His body's good, which is always a good thing with Tadhg. When his body's good, he tends to play really well."

Ireland face anxious wait

Furlong trained with Ireland on Tuesday despite the ongoing disciplinary process.

His availability remains uncertain, with the outcome of the hearing yet to be decided.

For now, Ireland boss Andy Farrell faces an anxious wait ahead of the November internationals.

The incident has already sparked debate, but Sexton's message could hardly have been clearer. He is standing firmly behind his former teammate.