'I think he is the best two-mile hurdler we have seen since Istabraq'

Can anything emerge to rival Buveur D’Air?

Harry Bannister, jockey At the moment I’d struggle to see anything emerging to rival him. I think Newcastle showed he wasn’t right for his victory in the Champion Hurdle last year, so he must have an outstanding chance of making it three at Cheltenham.

Bryan Cooper, jockey Definitely not. He is finally getting the recognition he deserves. I think he is the best two-mile hurdler we have seen since Istabraq. He is just so slick over his hurdles.

Paul Nicholls, trainer We’re still an awfully long way from Cheltenham and you’d imagine the Champion Hurdle could have a totally different shape to it by then with the addition of Laurina, Melon and plenty of others. Having said that, Buveur D’Air looks much the best currently and is very much the one to beat. His jumping is exceptional and stands him in good stead.