Paul Nicholls-trained aces set for racecourse gallop before King George showdown

Frodon and Clan Des Obeaux, who between them have won the last three runnings of the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase, will be pitted against each other before the big day with trainer Paul Nicholls planning a racecourse gallop for the pair to put them spot on for the feature race of the blockbuster festive period.

The gallop, at a racecourse yet to be confirmed, could produce one of the key clues for the Boxing Day spectacular – with Saint Calvados, fourth in the race last year, pencilled in to join two of the three who finished in front of him.

The Racing Post understands Nicholls' local track Wincanton, on the morning of December 15, is the most likely destination for the key workout – but much will depend on the ground which is currently described as good, good to firm in places on the chase track.