Robbie Henshaw is the biggest talent to come through Connacht's academy. The 21-year-old showcased a glimpse of his world-class potential at this year's World Cup, and is undoubtedly the jewel in Pat Lam's top of the table side.
The centre is leading the western province to new heights, and with a young exciting squad - Connacht's future looks better than ever. But now the golden boy admits that he might be moving on at the end of his current contract.
There have always been rumours about Henshaw leaving Connacht, especially last season when both Leinster and Munster were actively targetting his recruitment. But the Athlone star chose to remain in Galway - which allowed him to continue his college education, where he will graduate next summer. Henshaw's Connacht deal is also up next summer, and he is in line for his first centralised IRFU contract.
Speaking at an event for Connacht's sponsors Mazda Ireland, Henshaw admitted that he isn't sure where he will be playing his rugby next season. Henshaw is determined to choose the right move for his development and international prospects, admitting he 'could end up leaving Connacht' in the near future.
It is my choice. The IRFU can try and encourage me and open up with a couple of options, but at the end of the day I am out of contract at the end of the year.
Henshaw did stress that he wants to sort his future out before Christmas, with IRFU performance director David Nucifora yet to approach him about extending his rugby career in Ireland.
Munster and Leinster aren't the only two teams interested in Henshaw's services, and although Henshaw has revealed that he's had several clubs contact his agent - he sees playing in France as an adventure to take later on in his career. When asked if playing in France was appealing, Henshaw remained coy:
I am not saying no to it. It definitely is. There have been a few contacts to my agent. There has been a bit of outside interest, there has been people asking from all angles.
Connacht fan's feel-good factor after finishing the weekend at the top of the table hasn't lasted long, but at least they can console themselves that they've got into this position using Henshaw in only one game. The Athlone man is far from gone from Pat Lam's side, but it remains to be seen whether we can say that for much longer.
See Also: Ireland's 2019 Rugby World Cup Team Could Be Even Better Than 2015
See Also: There's One Clear Problem With Ireland's Rugby Development
Picture credit: Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE
