Bristol centre Gavin Henson has revealed that he was close to retiring after breaking his shin last season.
The Welshman suffered the injury during the first leg of his side's Championship playoff defeat to Worcester Warriors in May.
Henson is nearing full fitness and has been named on the bench for Bristol's season opener against Bedford Blues on Sunday.
"It was so painful, I honestly thought it was the end," he told BBC Sport. "The work the surgeon has done is unbelievable.
"I was devastated. Personally with the injury, but more so missing the final game. It was a horrific seven days for me, so unfair. We've got to move on, it's all about this season now."
Henson won 33 caps for Wales between 2001 and 2011.
