Khyber may have a run before Cheltenham

Nigel Twiston-Davies has yet to decide whether to give Khyber Kim another run before the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle.

The eight-year-old has been a revelation this season, winning both the Greatwood and Boylesports International at Cheltenham.

"We are looking at the Tote Gold Trophy at Newbury, we're thinking about that, and if that doesn't quite work we'll go straight to the Champion Hurdle. It wouldn't worry us," the trainer told Racing UK.

Khyber Kim did have a reputation of losing his way after a promising start to a season but the handler hopes that is a thing of the past.

"He has really excelled himself this year. I think there's been niggling problems with him in the past and he now knows it doesn't hurt him any more and he really goes for it every time now."

"We try and keep him very fresh. He doesn't do an awful lot of work, he doesn't need a lot, and is a happy chappy in the field," he added.

Khyber Kim is a 12/1 chance for the Champion Hurdle with Paddy Power.