Henderson harbours 12/1 Might Bite hopes

Trainer Nicky Henderson is quietly confident Might Bite can still challenge for the 2019 Cheltenham Gold Cup next month (Might Bite 12/1 to win Gold Cup).

The 10-year-old has looked a shadow of the horse that competed in the blue riband last year during his first two outings of the current campaign.

Might Bite finished second to Native River at Prestbury Park last season before then winning in fine style at Aintree in the Betway Bowl Chase.

However, the bay gelding has flattered to deceive in the last two runs after finishing last in the Betfair Chase and seventh in the King George VI Chase.

Henderson’s charge is now expected to struggle in the Gold Cup although the Seven Barrows trainer has seen signs of improvement in recent weeks.

He told reporters: “Yes, it has been disappointing and at Kempton he wasn’t in it from a long way out. He has lacked his rhythm and his jumping hasn’t been with the fluidity it usually is, and that is what we are hoping is going to come back.

“The horse that was in great form last weekend was Might Bite, who I am glad to say is in really good shape. If you don’t believe it, you don’t have to.

“Nico (de Boinville) rode him on Saturday and thought he was in terrific form. On what he has done this year, he is entitled to be the price he is. He doesn’t know what price he is and nor do I care.

“We’ve got to get there the best we can but I have to say I’m thrilled with what I saw on Saturday.”

Presenting Percy remains the 7/2 favourite to win the 2019 Cheltenham Gold Cup while Clan Des Obeaux is as short as 4/1 following his win at Ascot.

Odds subject to change.