The Henson Problem

Gavin Henson made a return to the Welsh team yesterday. Gavin Henson is a tempting proposition for the Welsh coaching team. He tackles hard, kicks like a mule and has the potential to split a midfield with a pass. The problem is that his professionalism has been questioned all the way through his career. Should he go to the world cup? I think his lack of professionalism and dalliance with retirement and celebrity is symptomatic of  a rugby player who has fallen out of love with the game and cannot think of anything better to do. More than any other sport rugby requires love for the game. The reason is because rugby is such a physically demanding game. The ability to take knocks and get up week in and week out requires not only physical strength but also mental endurance. Without a love of the game mental endurance is not likely to be in abundance. Added to this mixture  the obvious resentment of some of his teammates it adds to the impression that Henson is back only to further his brand and celebrity.