Henson joins Toulon

Henson, 29, only joined the north London club at the end of 2010 having also demanded to be released from his contract with the Ospreys following a long period of inactivity caused by injury and a stint on TV show Strictly Come Dancing.

"Welsh international Gavin Henson has signed a contract with Toulon as a medical replacement for Clement Marienval," a club statement said, without specifying how long he would stay.

He played his first competitive game in 18 months for Saracens on December 26, sparking speculation that the supremely gifted back, who played a major role in Wales's Six Nations grand slams of 2005 and 2008, could make an instant return to the national team for this month's tournament.

However, Saracens issued a statement on Wednesday saying he had asked to be released.

"Gavin Henson has asked to be released from his contract with Saracens with immediate effect. The club has agreed to this request," said club chairman Nigel Wray.

"We wish Gavin all the best for the future as he continues his return to the highest level of the game."

Henson joins a growing band of Britons playing in France and will have England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson as a new team-mate.