Henson picked up his latest injury against Gloucester in March

Wales coach Warren Gatland has said it would be a tragedy if Gavin Henson decides to retire from rugby.

The 27-year-old centre has been put on unpaid indefinite leave by the Ospreys fuelling speculation that he is close to quitting the game.

"It will be a tragedy if he is lost to the game because he is a huge talent," Gatland told BBC Radio 5 live.

Henson, who has not played since March due to an ankle injury, has previously refuted reports that he could quit.

He said last month: "I fully anticipate returning before too long having overcome injuries that have been a recurring problem for nearly three years."

And Gatland, while conceding that the decision is up to Henson, admitted that he didn't want him to quit.

"I haven't spoken to him. I want to wait a week or so before I make contact and see where his head is at and his plans for the future.

606: DEBATE I want him to come back and remain injury free, just to see him play. But it probably won't happen ospreydragon

"I have a good working relationship with Gavin. He's been part of a successful Welsh team and I would hate to see him lost to the game.

"I have a huge amount of respect for him as a player and when he is fit and on form, he is one of the best.

"But I haven't spoken to him. It's an Ospreys issue at the moment and they are dealing with him."

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