Nolan would prefer not to use Trophy option for Etoile

Martin Kelly

The County Wexford-based handler is hoping to run the six-year-old in the AIG Champion Hurdle at the Dublin track but does not want to bottom him on desperate ground.

However, while the Newbury race on February 12 is an option, Nolan would rather keep him closer to home and also hopes to have leading Arkle Trophy hope Cloone River start in the Irish equivalent on the same card.