Former USA captain Todd Clever, who was dropped from the USA team and left off the Rugby World Cup Squad, posted a message to his fans Saturday on Facebook.

The message served as a sort of official statement from Clever, who recently signed with the Newcastle Falcons and made his debut for the team on Friday.

The message said:

It is regrettable and unfortunate how the lead up to this World Cup has gone for me personally. I feel the media release issued by USA Rugby was an unfair misrepresentation of the situation. For the past 15 years, it has been the greatest honor to wear the Eagles jersey and represent my country. I have always strived to set a good example for my teammates and aspiring rugby players around the globe. It pains me not to be able to take the field with my brothers during this World Cup. But I support the team whole-heartedly and wish them all the best!

Thank you ALL for the support during this hard time!