Montayral in French bid

TRAINER Pat Hughes still has Montayral, a two-length third to Puntal in the Betfred Gold Cup last time out, in Sunday’s Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris at Auteuil after yesterday’s latest declaration stage.

Local star Kotkijet, the winner three years ago, will start a warm favourite after impressing in his build-up.

Willie Mullins accounts for three of the 10 left in the Prix La Barka on the same card Sadlers Wings, Joueur D'Estruval and Rule Supreme.