 | Born: 1 February 1982 Bridgend, Wales Position: Fly-half/centre Caps: 14 Points: 118 (three tries) Six Nations appearances: 3 Kicked a Welsh record 14 conversions from 14 attempts against Japan in the autumn |
Gavin Henson has signed a new four-year contract which will keep him at Neath-Swansea Ospreys until 2009. Henson's performances in the Six Nations have caught the eye of English and French clubs, but the Ospreys have moved quickly to secure their man.
The Wales centre said: "It's fantastic to be re-signing with the Ospreys.
"I never really wanted to consider any other Welsh side let alone look outside of Wales, and it's great to know I'll be staying for the next four years."
The Ospreys are on course to win the Celtic League title, and Henson believes the standard of the region has enabled him to adopt smoothly to international rugby.
"I think the side has grown immeasurably over the past year and that's been reflected in our performance," said the 23-year-old.
"The Ospreys are now setting the pace in Welsh rugby, on and off the pitch, and becoming the model for others to follow.
"I'm just happy to continue playing my part in such a successful side."
Henson signed the new deal before Wales' Six Nations win over France last Saturday.
With his current deal ending at the end of the season, the 2001 IRB world junior player of the year had been linked with a move away from Wales - following in the footsteps of Gareth Thomas and Stephen Jones.
But the Ospreys management insist they have always been confident Henson would commit his future to the region.
"We've worked hard to create an environment which has helped Gavin to thrive as a player and his recent performances are proof of that," said Ospreys team manager Derwyn Jones.
"He's an integral part of an extremely talented side that will be challenging for Europe's top honours next season."