‘Henson could be the best in the world’

Feb 13 2008 by Gareth Griffiths, South Wales Echo

WARREN Gatland has told Gavin Henson his international career is back on track and he has the potential to become the best inside centre in the world.

Henson has returned to the international scene after missing the World Cup and is only one of four players, along with Martyn Williams, Shane Williams and Lee Byrne, to feature in the whole of the Six Nations victories over England and Scotland.

And the Wales coach has made a bold prediction about how good the Ospreys centre can become.

“Gavin has been fantastic,” said Gatland.

“I still think there’s another level in him. We’ve just been straight up with him, told him what we expect and he’s been brilliant.

“I thought his performance against Scotland was magnificent. I am delighted with where he is in terms of his game.

“He is big, he's strong and he has fantastic skills, he is quick and he can defend. He has everything you are looking for in a midfield player.

“For these reasons, I have told him he could not just be the best player in the northern hemisphere in his position, but the best in the world.

“He agreed with what I had said but knows he isn't there at the moment. Without putting him under too much pressure, it will take a bit of time.

“We’d like to see him kick a bit more and step up to first receiver.

“We like him to be more extroverted on the field.

“Put those all together and you will have a special player.”

Wales latest: Pages 44-45