Henderson predicts epic Gold Cup

Nicky Henderson’s view of the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup does not differ vastly from the bookmakers, with the trainer predicting an ultra-close fifth clash between Long Run and Kauto Star.

Last season was dominated by Henderson’s Long Run, when he crushed the rival five years his senior in both the King George and Gold Cup, but the regenerated veteran has exacted brutal revenge this winter.

Eight lengths separated the pair in the Betfair Chase at Haydock before Long Run narrowed the gap to a length and a quarter at Kempton on Boxing Day and Henderson has noted the enthusiastic vibes coming from Kauto Star’s trainer, Paul Nicholls.