'I don't mind who shows up, our lad is in unreal form' - Barry Connell can't wait for heavyweight bout at Punchestown

Click here to add us to your Google preferred sources or find out more here

Barry Connell is convinced Marine Nationale will take the world of beating in what promises to be a humdinger of a William Hill Champion Chase at the Punchestown festival, even if Willie Mullins doubles up against him with runaway Cheltenham Festival winner Il Etait Temps and Majborough. 

Marine Nationale was unable to defend his Queen Mother Champion Chase crown last month due to a minor late setback, but that could be a blessing in disguise according to Connell, who feels he is best fresh.

When asked whether he would be disappointed if Marine Nationale did not win the Punchestown Champion Chase for a second year in a row, Connell said: "I definitely would. He was savage at Cheltenham last year and just got the job done at Punchestown.