Henson out to silence his critics

Gavin Henson heads to Australia tomorrow determined to prove his critics wrong and convince Wales coach Gareth Jenkins he is still a world-class player.

The 25-year-old's stock has fallen sharply over the last two years, to the point where he was overlooked by Jenkins for the Six Nations opener against Ireland.

He then suffered a season-ending knee injury and there were doubts he would be fit enough to be considered for the World Cup.

Henson's high-profile relationship with Charlotte Church and his loss of form led many to question whether he still had the desire to fight for his place in the Wales squad.

Jenkins hinted as much ahead of the Six Nations.

Henson recognises the perception people have of him but tonight he set the record straight and revealed a burning desire to play for Wales and make the World Cup squad.

"I have been out of the game for a long time. Selection for this tour has rescued my season and hopefully rescued my chances of getting to the World Cup," he said.

"I need to make a point in training and make a point to the coaches that I really want it. That will be my goal on this tour.  If I get a part in any of these Tests I will really go for it.

"I am sure there are people out there who doubt whether I can ever play like I did two years ago and I want to prove them wrong.  That would help Wales a lot and I am doing everything I can."

Some experts and observers questioned whether Henson would hang up his boots permanently.

Others suggested he would be better served out of the Welsh goldfish bowl, playing in the Guinness Premiership and a fresh environment.

But Henson has no plans of the sort and committed himself to the Ospreys for life.

"I think talk of me walking away from the game is understandable because I haven't played much, I have a pretty high-profile life being with Charlotte and I haven't reached the form of two years ago," he said.

"I can understand why people think like that — but it is not the case. I am not quitting. I am still in love with the game. There are highs and lows in rugby and I have been going through a low these last two years. But hopefully I am coming out of it now.

"I have another two years with the Ospreys and I would sign for the rest of my career down there. I love it. It is the best region and the best club in Europe and I am sure we are going to win the European Cup one of these days."