Ban for brawling Armitage
Delon Armitage, who was axed from the England squad after the ill-fated World Cup last year, has seen his hopes of a return evaporate.
The Rugby Football Union announced on Monday that Armitage has been suspended from the England Saxons squad, following his detention by Devon & Cornwall Police early on Sunday, January 29.
The London Irish fullback was released from the England Saxons camp, following the match against the Ireland Wolfhounds at the weekend.
He was later arrested in Torquay on suspicion of assault following an altercation in a nightclub, interviewed and then released on police bail while inquiries continue.
Armitage, who was criticised by Scotland coach Andy Robinson for being “arrogant” in a recent interview, was one of several players who found themselves in trouble during the World Cup in New Zealand last year.
The wing, Armitage, missed the quarterfinal loss to France, after receiving a ban for a dangerous tackle.
England head coach Stuart Lancaster, commenting on Armitage’s arrest at the weekend, said he had no option but to ban the player.
“We take issues surrounding the behaviour of England players very seriously and as such have decided to suspend Delon from the Saxons [squad], pending the result of the police inquiry,” Lancaster said.
“We will then consider if further action is appropriate under the EPS Code of Conduct.
“High standards of behaviour are required from England players on and off the field, and they also need to understand that they should not put themselves in a potentially vulnerable position or environment.”
London Irish said in a statement: “London Irish is extremely disappointed to hear about the incident involving Delon whilst on an England Saxons release period and takes these matters extremely seriously.
“We fully understand the RFU stance on this matter and will convene our own internal investigation to procure a full understanding of the matter in question, the outcome of which will determine any further action. Player conduct is a direct representation of the club and, therefore, inappropriate conduct will be strongly acted upon.”
