Manu Samoa coach, Stephen Betham, has defended his decision not to include veteran Manu Samoa lock, Daniel Leo, in the squad for the All Blacks and the Rugby World Cup.
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Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Betham was blunt.
“Simply put, it was form,” Mr. Betham said, denying claims that Leo’s outspoken nature against the Samoa Rugby Union had cost him a place in the team.
Betham’s comments were backed up by a statement from the S.R.U. in which Betham was quoted as saying:
“We have worked long and hard to pick the best possible players to represent Manu Samoa - it’s as simple as that.
“We’re grateful to all the players who made themselves available for selection, but as with any squad selection – we can’t choose everyone.
“Like many other players who have worn the jersey, we are proud of the way Daniel has represented and respected the Manu, and we’re grateful for his public support of the good things that are happening and for his continued support of the Manu.”
Last week, the former captain shocked the rugby world when he announced his retirement from the Manu Samoa.
But Leo later told the Weekend Observer that he had been dropped.
“After making myself available for this year’s historic All Blacks test and Rugby World Cup, I recently received a phone call from the team management with the news that I was dropped,” he wrote.
According to Betham, there were two players he had spoken to about pulling up their socks as the club reports were not good.
They were Joe Tekori and Leo.
Betham said he told the players that if they wanted to make it to the Manu Samoa, they needed to improve.
According to Betham, Tekori’s performance improved markedly.
As for Leo, he said he had not played for London Irish Club for a year and if he did, it was for ten minutes or less.
“If he’s not good enough to play for his club, then he is not good enough to play at an international level,” Betham said. “I wish him all the best. I have high respect for him. I don’t want to hold any grudges against him.”
Betham said that there is a selection process and unfortunately, Leo was not up to standard. .
“The club doesn’t want him anymore. I’m being honest with you and if you don’t believe me then call the London Irish Club,” he said.
“We have to select from where he’s playing. We can’t select from his past performances.”
Betham said he was disappointed to read that Leo was pointing fingers.
“But I can’t pick anyone who is not playing,” he said.
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