Welsh wonderboy brought to book

GAVIN HENSON has been warned: “Keep your opinions to yourself, or you’ll be remembered for one kick and dating Charlotte Church”.

Welsh rugby boss David Moffett has criticised the star centre's comments in his recently released book, My Grand Slam Year.

Henson, who kicked the winning goal against England last season in the Six Nations, attacked Wales' policy of selecting foreign-born players, as well as accusing Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll of eye-gouging him during the tournament.

The likes of Brent Cockbain (born in Australia), Sonny Parker (New Zealand) and Hal Luscombe (South Africa) shouldn't be in the Wales side, according to Henson.

"I honestly feel that three years of living in Wales does not make you Welsh," he wrote.

"Neither does having a Welsh grandfather if you were born and raised overseas. I know of people who feel frustrated when they find their way blocked by these guys and I understand their feelings."

An irritated Moffett said: "Gavin's comments were indiscreet. To mention somebody like Brent Cockbain is inadvisable, given that Brent has sweated blood, sweat and tears and given everything for Wales.

"Brent is big enough and ugly enough to have his own views on Gavin's comments my biggest problem is with Gavin's advisers and the people who wrote the book. They should be giving him much more pertinent advice as to what he should and shouldn't say.

"I have a great deal of respect for Gavin and I think he has a fine future, but I'm sure he doesn't want to be remembered for kicking one goal and for going out with Charlotte Church.

"He's got a fantastic future ahead, but he needs to be managed properly. He should be concentrating on getting back for the Ospreys and then Wales.

"He's got undoubted talent, but he's got a huge amount to prove on the field. He should be concentrating on that, and not all this extraneous off-the-field stuff.

"It's all very well writing a book when you've finished playing, but it can be a bit problematic when you've just started. I'd like to think in the full light of day, he may reconsider some things," he said.

"Peer pressure may come in to play here. This is a very closely knit team, who take the mickey out of each unmercifully, so I think Gavin can expect a decent old welcome in the changing rooms."

Moffett said he had fewer problems with Henson's claims that O'Driscoll gouged him during the Grand Slam-clinching win in Cardiff.

"That's just sledging. I'm Australian, and we invented it."

Wales coach Mike Ruddock wouldn't comment, except to say: "Gavin had a phenomenal season for us last year, and as soon as he's finished launching his book, he'll concentrate on his fitness."