"Outrageous" - Three England players who didn't make Steve Borthwick's standby list

He emerged as the top try scorer in the Premiership during the previous season, consistently adding a touch of excitement every time he graced the rugby field. His unique blend of physicality in tackling and world-class finishing skills set him apart.

Astoundingly, he continues to chase after his first England cap, despite being part of training squads on numerous occasions.

In an unexpected turn of events, he was initially excluded by Borthwick in June, only to be reinstated into the squad, and then dropped once more.

This entire situation seems rather unpleasant and undeserving for someone who has consistently delivered on the field. In a recent interview, he expressed feeling like he doesn't quite fit in, as he's not included in any standby lists.

The Bath back-rower, originally hailing from Dayton, Ohio, possesses the potential to represent the United States due to his place of birth.

Following a temporary absence from the England national team, he could become eligible to join the USA squad.

According to the stipulations, a three-year period of ineligibility would be imposed after his final international appearance for England, which occurred during a match against Tonga in November 2021.

Consequently, he would be able to don the Eagles jersey starting from November 2024.

The USA's recent failure to qualify for the 2023 Rugby World Cup necessitates any available assistance, and his inclusion would provide valuable support to the team.

During his childhood, his father Greg was stationed in Dayton with the RAF, yet the family relocated to Gloucester when he was approximately ten years old.

Considering his last appearance for England in 2022, he would have to wait until 2025 to represent the Eagles, coinciding with his age of just 30.

The number 8 has finally spoken out about his disappointment after being rejected for the Rugby World Cup by Steve Borthwick.

“It was obviously extremely disappointing but I’m ready and I’ve got the aspiration to put on that England jersey again,” he said.

“There were things that Steve wanted that I maybe couldn’t provide. I’m out of the picture, but I’m not just looking to the World Cup, even though it would have been amazing to return to France.

“I know I’ve got a long few years ahead of me yet. Don’t get me wrong, for 48 hours it was tough, but reality kicks in and you go, ‘Look, you’ve got a pregnant wife, a beautiful house to move into, real-life things you’ve got to sort out.’

“I play the game very differently to a lot of No 8s in England, and in the world. I’m not the stereotypical No 8 as some would say.

"So, I understand it if you want to play differently. Obviously, the back row is really competitive, so I knew I was never guaranteed. Steve wanted to go down a different route with how he wanted the back row to play and who he wanted.

“I’m not sitting and waiting as it would drive me insane. If I get a call from Steve, I get a call from Steve. There was no bad blood left there at all. It’s not written off, not at all. You want to play in World Cups, but at the forefront is my little baby girl, my wife, and Gloucester.”