Todd Clever axed from USA Rugby squad
Tuesday 21 July 2015 11:17, UK
USA Rugby have released former captain Todd Clever from their Pacific Nations Cup squad over "multiple squad conduct violations."
A brief statement from USA Rugby didn't elaborate on the violations, although coach Mike Tolkin cited behaviour "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," Tolkin said in a press release.
Chris Wyles replaced Clever as captain before the USA's 21-16 loss to Samoa in their opening match of the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday in San Jose.
The Eagles play Japan on Friday in Sacramento as part of a double-header in the California capital that also includes Fiji’s clash with Samoa.
Clever has played with the Eagles for 13 seasons and in two World Cups, winning 63 caps. He is also their longest-serving captain, having taken on the role in 2007.
The 32-year-old had a spell in Super Rugby with the Lions but has spent the past five years in Japan.
The USA are in a difficult World Cup pool with South Africa, Scotland, Samoa and Japan. They begin their campaign against Samoa in Brighton on September 20.
