Harchibald, runner-up in the Smurfit Champion Hurdle last spring, was ruled out of a repeat bid on the day that 35 entries were announced for this year’s renewal at Cheltenham on March 14.

Noel Meade hopes to issue an update on stable star Harchibald tomorrow.

Vets at the Troytown Hospital are happy with Harchibald’s progress following his operation on Sunday to remove a piece of birch from his leg.

NOEL MEADE believes it will be a “miracle” if Harchibald runs again this season after undergoing an operation to remove a piece of wood or birch lodged in his leg.

Leading Smurfit Champion Hurdle candidate Harchibald has suffered a setback which could keep him off the track for the remainder of the season.