Douvan eased for Tingle Creek by sponsors with target for return unclear

Douvan has been pushed out to 4-1 (from 7-4 favourite) for the Betfair Tingle Creek by the sponsors, who believe stablemate Un De Sceaux is the more likely to make the trip across from Ireland to Sandown next month.

Un De Sceaux is pressuring Fox Norton for favouritism in the Grade 1 on December 9 with Betfair and Paddy Power, while Douvan, yet to run since disappointing in March's Champion Chase, remains market leader with the majority of firms.

Douvan's repositioning in the market came after a weekend of mixed reports from trainer Willie Mullins, who stated the Tingle Creek was one of three possible targets for Douvan and Un De Sceaux, and owner Rich Ricci, who indicated Douvan may sit behind Un De Sceaux when it comes to the Sandown pecking order during an interview on At The Races on Sunday.

Barry Orr, spokesman for Betfair, said on Monday: "Basically we're reacting to what's been said by Willie Mullins and owner Rich Ricci in the media over the last couple of days.

"We've taken the view that the Tingle Creek is more likely to be an option for Un De Sceaux and it's unlikely that they'll both run in the same race."

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