NICKY HENDERSON is poised to see Sir Gino make his fencing debut at Kempton, allowing Constitution Hill to focus on the Champion Hurdle.

After Sir Gino’s impressive performance in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle last month, Hendo has been considering the best next steps for the four-year-old.

Sir Gino looks prepared for his chase at Kempton this Christmas

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Sir Gino looks prepared for his chase at Kempton this ChristmasCredit: PA

After that performance, bookmakers have cut his odds to 9-2 for the Champion Hurdle, although Hendo initially planned to enter him in novice chasing events at the season’s start.

With Constitution Hill appearing fit and ready for the Christmas Hurdle on Boxing Day, Hendo is anticipated to revert to the initial plan next week.

While he has been somewhat reserved about sharing his opinions on Sir Gino of late, he did mention on the Nick Luck Daily Podcast that ‘everything remains uncertain.’

Nonetheless, reports indicate that the horse has schooled exceptionally well over fences at Seven Barrows this morning, with plans in motion for the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase set for December 27.

Currently, Sir Gino is available at a top price of 6-1 for the Arkle Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

Meanwhile, the six-time champion trainer has provided a promising update on Constitution Hill, who is preparing for his return after a year-long absence.

He had been discovered to be lame in training for the Fighting Fifth Hurdle last month, adding to a series of health concerns for the former champion.

Despite this, Hendo remains hopeful that Constitution Hill will be ready for Kempton, where he could potentially meet Lossiemouth, with entries for the Christmas Hurdle due tomorrow.

In his own words during the NLD: “We have a week left and more work to do, but everything is progressing well. I’m feeling very positive.”

“He bounced back quickly from his recent issue, so we didn’t lose much time.

“His training has been outstanding, and he schooled recently, which really revitalized him. The fire is still alive.”

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