Leinster's Cumbrian coach Stuart Lancaster believes Johnny Sexton is “probably” the best player he has ever coached.

Legendary Ireland No.10 Sexton helped Leinster secure a historic double on Saturday, beating Scarlets 40-32 as they took the Guinness PRO14 title.

The victory came after the Irish province team had claimed a 15-12 victory over Racing 92 in the European Champions Cup Final in Bilbao a fortnight earlier.

Sexton played his part in both final successes, scoring three penalties in Leinster’s European final as he also landed three more penalties - and two conversions - in the win over Scarlets.

And Lancaster, from Culgaith, says he loves the challenge of coaching the 32-year-old.

“Of all the players I have coached, he is probably the best,” said the Penrith-born former England head coach.

“I have coached some brilliant players in England, obviously, and worked against players.

“His ability to see the game, his knowledge of the game, his ability to inspire others, to get the best out of them, his drive to succeed and want to achieve things is a challenge.

“But I love the challenge.

“It is his knowledge. It is challenged in a good way.

“He has been coached by great coaches and he has always wanted to get better himself. He has always wanted to improve.

“By being coached by great coaches and then, ultimately, having this desire to improve, makes him [the man that he is].”

“His knowledge is incredible, really,” Lancaster, who has enjoyed a superb first two years as senior coach at Leinster since joining in September 2016, added to The Independent .

“When I came in, I brought in some different ideas for him to think about which he has been broad-minded enough to accept.

“And I think his game has developed accordingly. His drive to be the best he can be is what sets him apart.”