IN THE LAST decade, Todd Clever had become one of the most instantly recognisable American rugby players.

His long, wavy ponytail made him stand out like a sore thumb, but he also had a reputation for being hard as nails, as Tommy Bowe can attest to, following their meeting with Ireland at the last World Cup.

But despite Clever being one of the USA’s most important players since he made his debut in 2003, his 2015 tournament looks in doubt, after being thrown out of the Eagles’ squad at the weekend.

The USA Eagles released a statement, explaining that “multiple squad conduct violations” were the reason for Clever being sent home from their Nations Cup campaign.

In a brief statement, head coach Mike Tolkin said: “Such behavior is contrary to the team culture that players and management have been fostering within the Eagles over time”

The statement gave no indication as to whether the captain  - who is just five caps short of setting the national record – will be reconsidered for selection for the tournament in September.

Here’s hoping the trouble didn’t stem from his appearance in ESPN’S Body Issue.

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