RUGBY : Wales boss Warren Gatland claims it would be “fantastic” to see Gavin Henson feature again in his Test match plans.
Wales boss Warren Gatland claims it would be “fantastic” to see Gavin Henson feature again in his Test match plans.
The Ospreys centre is currently on extended leave from rugby as he looks to regain full fitness after his latest injury setback but speculation has surrounded the 27-year-old, and whether he will play again, although both Henson and the Ospreys have denied repeated rumours that he could quit the sport.
Henson, capped 31 times, has not played for Wales since last season’s 17-15 RBS 6 Nations defeat against Ireland, but Gatland said: “I haven’t spoken to Gavin, but it would be fantastic to see him come back in.”
He added: “It’s not just his attacking ability, but his defensive qualities as well. He’s a big, powerful rugby player.
“I haven’t spoken to the Ospreys in terms of whether he is going to come back, but it would be fantastic for Gavin to come back and be available.
“I just think of the quality we’ve got to come back into the side – Adam Jones, Lee Byrne, Mike Phillips, Gavin Henson possibly.”
Wales concluded their autumn series with a comprehensive Millennium Stadium defeat against Australia, whose 33-12 success saw them score four tries to nil.
It was a poor performance by Wales, who crashed to their heaviest home loss since Gatland took charge two years ago.
Wales though, will continue to test themselves against Tri-Nations opposition. Appointments with South Africa and New Zealand (twice) are lined up during the next six months.
Gatland added: “I don’t take losing too well. I am pretty hard on myself, and the players we well. The criticism is justified.”
