The New Lion shaping up well for potential Sir Gino clash

Stablemate Kabral Du Mathan looks set to swerve a Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle run

CLASSY OPERATOR: The New Lion was an impressive winner of the Turners Novices' Hurdle at last year's Cheltenham Festival. Picture: Healy Racing 

Dan Skelton is relishing a potential Cheltenham Festival Trials day showdown against Sir Gino with The New Lion after keenly observing the best of the action over the festive period.

The front-runner for the trainers' title has been steadfast in his belief his Festival winner has all the qualities to land the two-mile hurdling showpiece in March, despite falling in a dramatic Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle.