Welsh legend Davies yearning to revive Henson’s stalled career

WALES legend Jonathan Davies wouldrelish the chance to sit down with Gavin Henson and help reignite his career in time for the World Cup.

At the moment, Henson cannot hold down a regular position in the Ospreys side and on current form he would struggle to make the Wales squad for the autumn Tests.

Davies, in his time as an international in both codes of rugby, has “been through all the pitfalls that are out there” and is ready and willing to help.

The problem is that Henson, despite his celebrity persona, is an intensely proud and private individual and when things are not going well, it can act as a barrier.

But Davies has complete faith in Henson and is convinced he can return to the stunning form of 2004-05 in time for the World Cup — he just needs some belief.

Davies explained: “If any player wants to talk I am always there.

“I love my rugby and I look at it differently now than when I was playing. I look at it analytically.

“I think I know what he is going through because I have been through most of the pitfalls.

“When you are up there and things aren’t going well it is very, very tough.

“As a rugby supporter, I know what he can do and I know what he is capable of.

“(Wales coach) Gareth Jenkins... won’t pick him on reputation, he has to start playing well for Ospreys.”

Henson hardly played last season as he recovered from a groin injury and then sat out a suspension for elbowing prop Leicester’s Alex Moreno.

The headlines still followed him, sparked by his controversial book and his relationship with singer Charlotte Church.

When Henson did return he was too light and so low on confidence he even declared himself “suicidal” after a poor performance coming off the bench for Wales against Ireland.

But Davies believes Henson is just one of his famous dump tackles away from an immediate upsurge in confidence and form — but it will need work and a change in mindset.

“Everything has been said for his celebrity way of life and his partner — but to me that is immaterial,” continued Davies.

“He trains hard, is very focused on what he does but he is not performing on the field. He has to look for opportunities and he has to take games by the scruff of the neck. If he can do that things will turn around.”