Trainer thrilled to have promising Puffin Billy back on team

Many Clouds might not be the only National horse in Oliver Sherwood's yard, with the trainer dreaming the long-absent Puffin Billy could develop into a contender for the Irish equivalent – provided he stays sound.

Off since winning at Ayr in April last year, the Tim Syder-owned eight-year-old may be considered for the €500,000 BoyleSports-backed event if he enjoys a smooth early part of the season, and Sherwood is thrilled to have him around again.

He said: "He's come back sound and is cantering. It's important for him to go right-handed so Cheltenham's out of the question, but there are Sandowns and Kemptons, and while soft ground is important it's not a necessity. I've got some ideas where to go but I want to get him close to running first.