"In the interests of Gavin personally, and for Welsh rugby in general, we have reluctantly agreed to his request to be released from his contract with immediate effect, enabling him to return to rugby with Saracens.
"I am disappointed and frustrated, both personally for myself and for the Ospreys, as one thing we would all want to see is Gavin Henson back in an Ospreys shirt. However, circumstances haven't allowed for that to happen, and it is necessary that we make the decision that we have in order to allow everyone to move forward from the current position.
"All rugby fans will look forward to seeing Gavin back on a rugby pitch, and we sincerely hope that he will be back in the red jersey of Wales before too long. With the Rugby World Cup taking place next year, no doubt that will be the focus of Gavin's efforts over the coming months.
"I know how strong Gavin's personal desire is to play at a World Cup. It has been a long-term ambition of his, and I certainly didn't want to be the person who prevented him from achieving that aim by standing in his way.
"As a rugby organisation, we pride ourselves on our contribution to the national set-up and we strongly believe that we would be the best place for Gavin to launch his return to rugby and to target a place in the Wales squad. However, as frustrating as it is for everyone involved at the Ospreys, on this occasion we have to concede that he will not play for us during the remaining time on his contract, and as such, take the responsible course of action that is best for all concerned.
"As one of the original Ospreys from 2003 Gavin has given great service to the region, playing a big part in helping to establish the strength of our brand, and from my discussions with him I have never been in any doubt about his love for the Ospreys. Unfortunately, changes to his personal circumstances have meant that he needs to seek alternative options. While agreeing to release him from the terms of his contract, we still hope that we haven't seen the last of Gavin in an Ospreys jersey, and we sincerely hope that one day he will return to his home region.
"Ospreys Rugby wishes Gavin all the best, and we hope that this move will enable him to once again become the player he was previously, regaining the influential form that he has shown for us on many occasions."
