Lexus the plan for Exotic

Exotic Dancer will only run in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton on St Stephen's Day if he cannot get across the Irish Sea for the Lexus Chase.

The Jonjo O'Neill-trained gelding is due to travel by ferry today for Sunday's Leopardstown feature, and has only be declared for the 'King George' as a precaution.

In the past two seasons, he has finished second and third in the King George but his owner, Sir Robert Ogden, has another leading contender this time in the Alan King-trained Voy Por Ustedes.

Exotic Dancer was due to travel yesterday but has been held up 24 hours following a change in transport plans.

'He's left the yard and is on his way now. I think everything will be okay but we just wanted to cover our backs (by declaring at Kempton),' confirmed O'Neill.

'The ferry goes later on Christmas Eve and he is travelling across with The Listener and Paul Nicholls' runner. He's been in good form and we are hoping he will show us something.'

'The Lexus looks a better option as I don't think Kempton really suits him. We've tried making the running with him and tried dropping him in but neither plan worked so it's time to try something different.'

and wanted to cover every possible angle. Once he's on that ferry he won't come back for the King George whatever happens after that as there's no transport back in time, so we will be committed to that.'