Kauto Star tops King George field

History-seeking Kauto Star heads a final field of 11 runners in the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton on St Stephen's Day.

Paul Nicholls’ star chaser is bidding for an unprecedented fifth consecutive victory in the Festive highlight and will be partnered by champion jockey Tony McCoy for the first time following the late withdrawal of Noel Fehily.

Nicholls is also represented by The Nightingale, while Nicky Henderson sends out a strong pair in Long Run and Riverside Theatre.

Long Run won the Feltham Novices’ Chase in brilliant style on this card 12 months ago, with Riverside Theatre unbeaten in four course starts.

Last season’s Arkle Trophy hero Sizing Europe is joined by Forpadydeplasterer on the trip from Ireland.

Nacarat, Albertas Run, Madison Du Berlais, Ollie Magern and Planet Of Sound complete the line-up.

The three defectors from the confirmation stage were the Nicholls-trained pair of What A Friend and Noland and Henderson’s Burton Port.