Alner waits on Walford

PAUL CARBERRY could get the leg up on Kingscliff if Robert Walford fails in his race to be fit for the Stan James King George VI Chase at Sandown on Boxing Day.

Trainer Robert Alner has “plenty of options” for last year’s runner-up, who is chasing the £1million Betfair bonus after taking the first leg at Haydock last month.

Walford, successful on Kingscliff in the Betfair Chase, suffered a hairline fracture of his left collarbone in a schooling accident at Alner’s Dorset stable last Thursday. However, he did ride out for the trainer yesterday, suggesting he could still be fit for Sandown.