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The governing body of rugby in the United States, USA Rugby has stated that former captain and veteran of three Rugby World Cups, Todd Clever effective immediately, has been released from the Eagles’ Pacific Nations Cup squad due to multiple squad conduct violations.
Without detailing the specifics Head Coach Mike Tolkin informed that ”Such behavior is contrary to the team culture that players and management have been fostering within the Eagles over time. Clearly, this is not a pleasant or desirable circumstance for either party.”
In the lead-up to the Saturday’s match against Samoa Clever posted his support for the Eagles on social media: “Great to be back with the USA boys in my hometown (San Jose CA) We have a big game tomorrow vs Samoa. Sadly I won’t be running onto the field tomorrow.”
Clever’s absense would appear to be due to him missing team training sessions. Pat Clifton of Rugby Today wrote ”The violations were Clever’s absence at two mandatory sessions in the lead-up to the Samoa game, one the morning of the match and the other earlier in the week.”
Preparation for the Pacific Nations Cup was headlined by Clever losing the captaincy in favor of Saracens’ outside back Chris Wyles who continues to be unchallenged in the run-on team unlike Clever. The veteran Clever has been under pressure for a place in the starting back-row with the Eagles enjoying notable options in the form of Danny Barrett, Cam Dolan, Scott LaValla, Samu Manoa, John Quill, Lou Stanfill and Matt Trouville.
Dolan, Barrett and Quill started in San José last night with Sevens players Andrew Durutalo providing cover from the bench. All four performed well thus justifying the decision to leave Clever out. Tolkin has indicated that releasing Clever is only short-term and that he will be able to push for World Cup selection.
After the Pacific Nations Cup the USA Eagles are to play warm-up matches against Canada, Australia and Aviva Premiership side the Harlequins. Clever will have an oppórtunity to press for a recall in these matches but will have no guarantee due to rested players returning to the frame at this time.
