Mullins happy with Hurricane Fly's Leopardstown workout

Willie Mullins was "absolutely delighted" with Hurricane Fly's latest workout at Leopardstown this afternoon.

Ireland's champion trainer has recently not been satisfied with the current champion hurdler, and decided not to run him in the Istabraq Festival Hurdle over Christmas.

But after a strong workout with three stablemates, Mullins is hopeful he will make the line-up for the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown on January 29.

"Everything went very well," said Mullins.

"It was more than a little workout, it was a good piece of work.

"I sent three others to gallop with him. He was ridden by Emmet (Mullins).

"Emmet and Paul (Townend) ride him in all his homework, but I`ve given Paul a few days off this week.

"Emmet settled him in behind and he cruised up to the others, and when Emmet gave him a squeeze he shot clear. I was absolutely delighted with him, it was just what we wanted to see.

"We`re working towards the Irish Champion Hurdle with him on the 29th and hopefully he`ll get there."

Hurricane Fly was unbeaten last season, with wins in races like the Hatton`s Grace, the Festival Hurdle and the Champion Hurdles at Cheltenham and Punchestown.

He is around the 5-2 mark to retain his Cheltenham crown.