Gavin Henson completes move to Saracens
Wales centre Gavin Henson has finalised his move to Saracens after being released by Welsh side Ospreys.
The 28-year-old trained with the Aviva Premiership contenders earlier this week and completed his move on Wednesday evening after 18 months away from the sport.
Henson is currently competing in the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing show, and will join up with his new club once his run in the competition comes to an end.
In a statement on Ospreys’ official website, managing director, Mike Cuddy, expressed his disappointment at losing the Wales international.
"In the interests of Gavin personally, and for Welsh rugby in general, we have reluctantly agreed to his request to be released from his contract with immediate effect, enabling him to return to rugby with Saracens," Cuddy confirmed.
"I am disappointed and frustrated, both personally for myself and for the Ospreys, as one thing we would all want to see is Gavin Henson back in an Ospreys shirt. However, circumstances haven't allowed for that to happen.
"Ospreys Rugby wishes Gavin all the best, and we hope that this move will enable him to once again become the player he was previously, regaining the influential form that he has shown for us on many occasions."
After a year and a half away from rugby on unpaid leave, Henson isn’t expected to be match fit until Christmas at the earliest.
However, Saracens needed a replacement for injured fly-half Derick Hougaard, who is expected to miss the rest of the season with an Achilles tendon injury, and head-hunted Henson.
The player’s agent, Matt Ginvert, revealed that the centre was delighted to have completed the deal taking him to Vicarage Road.
"Gavin's thrilled with what's happened now," Ginvert said. "He's really looking forward to getting back on the rugby pitch when he is available to do so."
He added: "Gavin's totally committed to see through Strictly Come Dancing and to do his best to win if he can."
Henson made it clear last month that he wanted a move to a London club to be closer to his children. With his wish completed, Sarries chief executive Edward Griffiths will be relishing the prospect of seeing the Welshman in a Saracens jersey.
Earlier this week, Griffiths told BBC Sport: "The risk is low even though he hasn't played for 18 months.
"There are not many teams who would not want him. He's an amazing talent who can do a couple of things ordinary players don't do.
"He is maybe a once-in-a-generation talent and if Saracens can provide a platform to re-launch his career and maximise his potential, we will be providing a service not only to ourselves but to Welsh rugby."
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