Heineken Cup: Gavin Henson in line to further boost Blues

Gavin Henson’s long-awaited debut for Cardiff Blues could come sooner than expected with the Wales international lined-up to make an appearance in the Heineken Cup this Friday.

Henson has been out of action since picking up a wrist injury in a friendly game against England back in the summer – a blow that meant he was ruled out of Wales’ run to the semi-finals of the World Cup.

He subsequently signed for Cardiff Blues – local rivals of former club Ospreys – and now finally looks set to play for the capital side and put his injury woes behind him.

Speaking to the Western Mail, Blues backs coach Gareth Baber said: “Gavin is very close now.

“In terms of his hand and his wrist, he has recovered from that and is back to where he needs to be.

“It’s absolutely a boost for us. He’s a quality player.”

Henson may be better known in recent years for his appearances on the likes of The Bachelor and Strictly Come Dancing, but there can be no doubt that a fully-fit Henson would be a huge boost to both the Blues and Wales.

However, the Blues haven’t exactly been struggling in the Heineken Cup without the perma-tanned back and they are now within touching distance of the knockouts after winning their opening three Pool 2 games.

They now head to Edinburgh this Friday night for their fourth game and are the narrow 4/5 favourites to triumph over the side immediately below them in their pool.

It looks likely Henson will have to settle for a place on the bench and he hardly set the world alight during recent spells with Saracens and Toulon. However, his inclusion will do the Blues’ hopes of victory no harm whatsoever and makes them an extremely tempting punt to win.