Phil Kirby, Jane Mangan and David Mullins join our expert panel

Clan Des Obeaux (right) heads Thistlecrack at the last in the King George VI Chase at KemptonCredit: Alan Crowhurst (Getty Images)

Who is your idea of the Gold Cup winner after the Christmas skirmishes?

Phil Kirby, trainer I wouldn’t be thinking of Clan Des Obeaux as a Gold Cup winner, but Thistlecrack ran a great race in the King George and in particular I liked how Native River stayed on. That race would not have suited him and he should be right in the Gold Cup mix again.

Jane Mangan, broadcaster The good ground at Leopardstown was to the detriment of Shattered Love in the Savills Chase and Road To Respect was also unfortunate in that race. I wouldn’t rule out Kemboy, Bellshill, Road To Respect and Shattered Love in a Gold Cup at this stage. If I had to ride one of them? Road To Respect.

Charlie Mann, trainer The King George threw up more questions than answers with Might Bite bleeding. Presenting Percy is favourite only because he hasn’t fluffed his lines this year. I was impressed by Kemboy’s win, he looked really good. I like him and if the ground was on the soft side I would go Native River too.

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Published on 30 December 2018inNews

Last updated 10:00, 31 December 2018

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