ContinueSo Gavin Henson is back, this time with London Welsh. A brave new dawn or the same old story?
That is the question all rugby fans will be asking as the utility back begins the next chapter in his chequered career. The highs have been high. A Grand Slam with Wales, a Magners league title with the Ospreys, a Lions cap in New Zealand. The lows? Well, they've been very low.
A string of long-term injuries worsened by a string of controversies and falling outs at Saracens, Toulon and Cardiff. Throw in his off-field antics - two children with singer Charlotte Church but now separated, and a host of reality TV roles and glossy magazine appearances.
What is undeniable is that Henson possesses a wonderful, natural talent at rugby and that this represents his very last chance. On the occasions that I have sat down with Gavin and conducted major interviews with him, I have always found him courteous, pleasant and almost shy. I like the man I have met, and struggle to link him to the chaotic person that has caused both Toulon and Cardiff to dispense of his services.
It is a coup for the Exiles to sign Henson even if it does not work out on the pitch because if there were some who were unaware that the famous old club are back in the big time, they are now. But with the likes of former Welsh legend John Taylor at the helm at Welsh, they will be expecting a great deal more than just some marketing opportunities.
Welsh had to win an appeal to gain Aviva Premiership status. They would very much like to stick around the top flight. Henson has one more chance to prove he still has it. Premiership survival, and the renaissance of an international career perhaps? Both can help each enormously. Let's hope this becomes a marriage made in haven, not a divorce.
