Gavin Henson: Bath give Wales back chance to earn new deal

Gavin Henson has made 35 appearances since joining Bath in 2013

Bath have insisted they will give Wales utility back Gavin Henson the chance to earn a new deal at the club.

Henson, 32, has been sidelined by injury since November and is out of contract in the summer.

He has been linked with a move to Bristol and Newport Gwent Dragons, while Bath have added Scarlets' Rhys Priestland to their backline options.

"We've kept Gav abreast of the situation and our intentions," coach Toby Booth told BBC Radio Bristol.

"Once he's back fit he has the chance to stake a claim and be re-contracted. That's how it's been left with him."

Prior to his time at The Rec, Bridgend-born Henson had not spent more than one season at any club since leaving Ospreys in 2009, after which he took a year out from the game before spells at Saracens, Toulon, Cardiff Blues and London Welsh.

He eventually joined Bath in 2013 and has gone on to make 35 appearances in all competitions, playing at centre, fly-half and full-back for the Premiership club.

Speaking about the speculation linking Henson to Bristol, director of rugby Andy Robinson said: "I'm not saying either yes or no as to whether we're looking at him.

"Gavin is a talented player who has played well for Bath. We have a lot of respect for the way he goes out and plays the game - but, from my side, when there are things to be announced it will be announced."