Lyle leaves Bath

Lyle played more than 100 games for Bath

Bath's American number eight Dan Lyle has left the club by mutual consent as he looks to concentrate on the forthcoming World Cup.

Lyle - who made over 100 appearances for the club since joining in 1997 - captained the club in the 2001-02 season.

"Dan skippered the side and was a great influence on many of the players," read a statement on the club website.

"We would like to formally thank Dan for his time with the club and wish him every success for the future."

Lyle has 40 caps for the USA and is likely to feature at next month's World Cup where the Eagles are scheduled to take-on Fiji, Scotland, Japan and France in the pool stages.

I am very excited about the next chapter in my rugby career Dan Lyle

"My time spent at Bath has been a very special period in my life," said Lyle.

"To have been received so warmly by the club so early in the professional era is something I will never forget.

"I have made lifelong friends at the club while the supporters have always been behind me from day one - and for that I would like to thank them.

"I am very excited about the next chapter in my rugby career which includes the World Cup in Australia and my primary focus now will be on the USA national team as we enter our final preparations over the next few weeks."

Lyle has yet to announce his post World-Cup plans, prompting speculation that his career in club rugby could be over.