Nicholls hits out at Kauto critics

PAUL NICHOLLS has reacted angrily to calls for Kauto Star to be retired after he was beaten in the King George VI Chase on Saturday.

The 11-year-old was bidding to make history at Kempton by becoming the first horse to win the prestigious contest five times.

But having made a couple of jumping errors, the legendary performer had to settle for third behind impressive winner Long Run, leading some observers to believe the French-bred star was past his best.