Ospreys consider legal action over Gavin Henson
The Ospreys are considering whether to take legal action against Aviva Premiership side Saracens after Gavin Henson trained with the club without the Welsh side’s consent.
The British and Irish Lions star is still contracted to the Ospreys, but has been on unpaid leave with the club for 18 months.
However, the Welsh centre indicated that he does not want to play in Wales and that he is looking to restart his rugby career in London in order to be closer to his family.
The versatile player is currently involved in the BBC television series Strictly Come Dancing, but Henson wants to return to rugby after he finishes working on the show.
The centre was invited to train with Saracens and the director of rugby Brendan Venter is keen to add Henson to his squad to provide cover for injured out-half Derick Hougaard.
Saracens indicated that they were close to signing Henson, but Saracens chief executive, Edward Griffiths said, "The deal is not done. There are obstacles, but we hope to make an announcement by the end of the week. We’re in contact with the Ospreys because
they hold his registration and have been involved in developing the player."
Henson has stated that he hopes to make the Rugby World Cup next year, but assistant coach Neil Jenkins believes it will not be easy for the centre to re-establish himself in the team, especially if he is not playing in Wales.
No Welsh players who are with English clubs were called up for the Autumn Internationals, because they would not be released by their clubs 13 days in advance of the matches.
"It is not easy when you are not playing in Wales. If he does sign for Saracens and I haven’t got a clue what he will do, I am sure he will be under a similar contract to all the other boys, so it won’t be easy for him to turn up (with Wales)."
Tags: