Mixed vibes from Halo team

Connections of Celestial Halo hope he can go one place better in Tuesday's Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle - although they are hardly brimming with confidence.

Owner Andy Stewart said: "I think you can put a line through last year's one-two-three as they have not really franked the form since.

"Go Native sets the standard and he is the one we have all got to beat."

Trainer Paul Nicholls retains the faith, and will employ more patient tactics on the first-time blinkered six-year-old.

Nicholls said: "I am happy with him and he is definitely a spring horse, as he has proved winning a Triumph and by his run in the Champion last year.

"He was very impressive first time out this year when he gave weight and a beating to Mamlook.

"He ran well in the Greatwood giving weight away to Khyber Kim and Medermit, and on that form he would have every chance.

"The blinkers have made a big difference to him at home. I have been happy with the way he is working and he has a chance in a race which looks wide open."