Henson's future unclear after suspension

Gavin Henson’s one-week suspension for a breach of club discipline has thrown his Toulon future into doubt and cast a shadow over his World Cup aspirations.

Toulon would confirm only that Henson had broken the club’s code of conduct and would miss next Saturday’s crucial game against Perpignan.

But reports in France stated the Wales international had fought with team-mates after last weekend’s 21-9 victory over Toulouse in Marseille.

Club president Mourad Boudjellal confirmed a decision over Henson’s future would be taken on Monday, which suggests he could even have played his final game for Toulon.

Henson, who joined Toulon on a short-term contract in February, has been hoping to convince head coach Philippe Saint-Andre to give him a new two-year deal.

The 29-year-old was initially hampered by a hamstring injury, but made a try-scoring debut against Stade Francais and made his second start in the victory over Toulouse.

Saint-Andre has already admitted he may not be able to accommodate Henson, Jonny Wilkinson and Matt Giteau next season, especially if they are all involved in the World Cup.

If Henson is drummed out of Toulon before the end of the season, it could have a significant impact on his ambition of playing for Wales at the World Cup.

Henson has set that as his target since returning to rugby late last year after an 18-month sabbatical.

Wales backs coach Rob Howley revealed earlier this month that Henson was in line for an international return during this summer’s pre-World Cup internationals.

But Howley also said the Wales management would be closely monitoring Henson’s performances in the closing weeks of the season.

“We’re watching Gavin very closely and he’ll certainly come into the mix in our Rugby World Cup preparation,” Howley said.

“His ability to play 12 or 13, with a kick, run or pass option...he is a very confident rugby player. I think that his game-time is going to be monitored between now and the end of the season.”

Even if Henson goes straight back into the Toulon team after his ban, he would only have one regular season game in which to prove himself to both Saint-Andre and Wales.

Toulon are currently seventh in the Top 14 table, one point and one place outside of the play-offs. It is likely they will have to beat sixth-placed Montpellier on the final weekend of the regular season to qualify.

Henson last played for Wales in the 2009 Six Nations before a combination of personal problems and injuries prompted him to take unpaid leave from the Ospreys.

After some reality television appearances, he returned to rugby late last year with Saracens before moving on to Toulon.