Toulon reprieve for Henson
FORMER Wales star Gavin Henson has been reprieved by French club Toulon following his suspension for alleged misconduct and will remain with the Top 14 side until at least the end of the season.
The 29-year-old (right) had been placed on gardening leave leading to reports in France that he would be sacked by the Toulon president, Mourad Boudjellal.
However, Toulon coach, Philippe Saint-Andre, met Henson yesterday and the club issued a statement confirming that the player was now back in the fold.
“The president Mourad Boudjellal and his staff at Toulon Rugby Club have decided on the reintegration of the Welsh centre Gavin Henson into the squad,” read the club statement.
Henson has only made two appearances for his latest club since he made the shock decision to quit Saracens after a short stint with the London club at the turn of the year. Should Henson fulfill his ambition of retaining his Wales place ahead of the World Cup, Toulon would be in the market for a new fly-half but team manager Tom Whitford denied Danny Cipriani, who would be available during the off-season of his Super 15 franchise, Melbourne Rebels, could be part of their plans.
“The link with Cipriani is pure speculation,” said Whitford. “I don’t think there is any mileage in it.”