Six Nations
Williams: Wales will welcome Henson
ESPNscrum Staff
January 8, 2011

Martyn Williams has assured Gavin Henson that he would be welcomed back into the Wales fold if he makes a Six Nations return.

The centre has not played for his country since March 2009 but after a long spell out of rugby he has returned with Aviva Premiership club Saracens. Henson underwent fitness tests with the national side at their Vale of Glamorgan base earlier this week and could be in line for a sensational recall for Wales' Six Nations opener with England on February 4.

There have been fears that Henson's return from a self imposed 21-month exile might have made him unpopular within the national squad, but Williams' comments will boost the star, who has been dropped by his club for their Premiership clash with London Irish on Sunday. Former Wales star and popular pundit Jonathan Davies has been scathing in his criticism of Henson, making it clear he doesn't believe he is worth a place in the national team.

But 35-year old Williams, who has won 98 caps for his country, believes Henson would boost Warren Gatland's options and would be welcomed back.

"I've no issues whatsoever with him coming back into the squad," the Cardiff Blues openside told The Western Mail. "The players are looking forward to having him back, especially as he's left himself open to a lot of ribbing after doing Strictly Come Dancing.

"Obviously there's a lot of talk about Gavin and I won't be surprised to see him in the Six Nations squad. We each know what a world-class player he is and his record speaks for itself. When he has played, we've been successful.

"It will push everybody to keep their spots. We've not got ridiculous playing numbers, so we need players of Gav's quality fit and playing to strengthen the Wales squad. "

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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