Kauto Star, currently 8/13 favourite, will face a maximum of 13 opponents when he bids for a historic fourth consecutive victory in the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton on December 26. He will be ridden by regular jockey Ruby Walsh.

The jockey told www.sportinglife.com: "I would say Kauto Star is as good if not better than last year. Kempton's been a very lucky track to me over the last couple of years and Kauto has been outstanding there. It's a race I really look forward to and I can't wait for it to come around."

He added: "I'm looking forward to riding him and if he could win four King Georges he will go down in history."

The field incudes Imperial Commander, the horse who came agonisingly close to beating Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase.

Imperial Commander is one of three Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained horses, alongside Ollie Magern and Roll Along. David Pipe has included Madison Du Berlais and Our Vic.

Pipe issued a positive bulletin on his pair of runners when speaking on At The Races on Monday morning.

He said: "Madison is in good form and never puts his best foot forward first time out for some reason.

"He put up a very good performance at Kempton last year when beating Denman.
davidpipe

Kauto Star is 1/2 and looks a good thing but we'll be doing our best to beat him.

"Our Vic is a little bit better going left handed and, while he's not getting any younger, he put up a good performance when winning at Warwick."

Peterborough Chase winner Deep Purple is set to take his chance as well as Racing Post Chase winner Nacarat. Albertas Run could represent Jonjo O'Neill, while Nicky Henderson's Barbers Shop is an interesting contender running in the colours of the Queen.

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