O'Connell has faith in Dunguib

Brian O'Connell is hoping Dunguib can prove himself against the big guns when they line up for the Stan James Champion Hurdle on Tuesday.

The 2009 Cheltenham bumper winner was sent off odds-on favourite when only third in the Supreme 12 months ago and was then sixth to Hurricane Fly in Punchestown on his final start last spring.

He only returned at Gowran Park last month, but showed his well-being with victory over Luska Lad, and rider Brian O'Connell is looking forward to the race.

"It looks a very good race and hopefully he'll give a good account of himself," said O'Connell.

"He should handle the ground OK. It shouldn't be a problem, it will be safe and that's the main thing.

"It was a good comeback run at Gowran. He couldn't have done more on the day and we were delighted with him. He came out of the race well and he seems to be in good form going into the race."

Fenton also feels Dunguib has benefited for his recent outing and just wants the horse to do the talking this year.

"I am sure that he is improved since winning at Gowran Park, but I am also well aware that he needs to if he is going to run well at Cheltenham," said the County Tipperary trainer.

"There is obviously less talk and hype about the horse compared to last year, but things are running smoothly and we are very happy with him at the moment."

Henderson has saddled five winners of the race and despite being hit hard by Binocular's absence, he still has a potent second string in the shape of Oscar Whisky, impressive winner of the Welsh Champion Hurdle last time out.

Fourth to Menorah in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle here 12 months ago, the Seven Barrows trainer is confident he has improved again.

He said: "I think Oscar Whisky is in seriously good form, he is very, very well.

"He won what was my main target, the Welsh Champion Hurdle, which was important because Dai Walters, who owns him, owns Ffos Las, but having said that, I just think he has come on a fair bit from that."

Menorah has won all his three races over the course and his jockey Richard Johnson reports Philip Hobbs' charge to be in good form.

"He's been doing very well. I schooled him the other day and he seems fine in himself and felt good," he said.

"He enjoys the track and he's got a good record there so hopefully he can keep that record up."