Elliott bypasses Christmas period with Envoi Allen as he nominates Naas target

Gordon Elliott has revealed he will sidestep the busy Christmas action with Envoi Allen and instead aim the exciting novice at the Grade 1 Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle on January 5.

Elliott landed the race 12 months ago with Battleoverdoyen and, speaking at the launch of Ireland's first Grade 1 of 2020, confirmed his unbeaten star to be on course for the 2m4f contest.

Elliott said: "Naas is a great track and we have a good few entered in the Lawlor's Of Naas Hurdle. The plan is to run Envoi Allen.

"He won the Royal Bond well at Fairyhouse and the step up two and half miles will suit him. We'll run something else along with him – we'll see closer to the time what else we'll run."

Martin Brassil hopes to run his Longhouse Poet, an impressive winner of a Navan maiden hurdle on his most recent start.

Brassil said: "He's a nice horse and he won well at Navan. The Lawlor's fits into his programme nicely and the plan is for him to go there. It will be a big step up from Navan, but I've been very happy with him and he'll go to Naas."

Joseph O'Brien also holds a strong hand, with Midnight Run and Embittered holding entries.

Speaking about his contingent, O'Brien said: "Midnight Run and Embittered will probably go to Naas. We also have Front View in the race and we'll see what we'll do with him a bit closer to the time."

Did you know you can bet via the Racing Post mobile app/website? Simply sign in with your favourite bookmaker via the Accounts button and then bet direct from our racecards