Madden upbeat about National chances

Niall ‘Slippers’ Madden believes Numbersixvalverde will handle the rough-and-tumble of the John Smith’s Grand National with consummate ease.

Madden takes the plum ride aboard Martin Brassil’s 10-year-old, as big-race pilot Ruby Walsh will be aboard Hedgehunter, and is relishing the prospect of tackling the Aintree fences on April 8.

The 20-year-old Irish rider reports Numbersixvalverde to be in fine form and is adamant the gelding, as low as 10-1 to win the National, will be unfazed by the huge field in the four-and-a-half-mile marathon.

“I think he’s going to do one more serious bit of work but things have gone great since his last run and I know Martin is very happy with him,” said Madden.

“I think Liverpool will suit him. He’s had plenty of experience in those big-field handicaps in the past and will enjoy the hurly-burly in the race at Aintree.

“It’s a big opportunity for me and I can’t wait. You hear all this talk about the Aintree fences but I’m just going to take it as it comes.

“My dad (former jockey-turned-trainer Niall Madden) and other people have told me the important thing is to keep your nose clean and stay out of trouble during the first circuit.

“After that, anything can happen.”