KEYS TO THE KINGDOM

D'Arcy: Byrne is heir to Sexton's throne

- MICHAEL SCULLY

GORDON D'ARCY insists Ross Byrne must improve in every game if Leinster are to win silverware this season.

Former Blues star D'Arcy (inset) believes Byrne is capable of doing that, describing the 27-year-old as a "big game player".

With Johnny Sexton's season already over, the onus is on Byrne to perform after Leinster's trophyless end to last season.

"Can they win without Johnny Sexton? On one hand possibly that's a concern, on the other hand it's a massive opportunity," said D'Arcy.

"Ross Byrne is now going to get the keys to the kingdom. He's got a (Champions Cup) semi-final next week and a (URC) quarter-final the week after, to try to steer Leinster home.

"There will be a huge focus from Leinster about converting on this potential – because the longer you go without getting into a final would be a concern.