Kauto Star not hampered by conditions, says Nicholls

Kauto Star (5/4 favourite) will face seven rivals in Saturday's Betfair Chase at Haydock, following the withdrawal of stablemate Nozic who disappointed Paul Nicholls during schooling.

Despite heavy rain in the north-west England, further softening the track at Haydock, the dual Gold Cup winner stands his ground on what will be his seasonal reappearance.

The ground at Haydock is described as soft, heavy in places and while there are concerns among some that such conditions could hamper Kauto Star's bid for a third win in the race, Nicholls says he has no worries.

"I don't see it being a problem," said Nicholls. "When he won at Down Royal first time out last year I walked the track and it was as heavy as I've seen and it didn't bother him.

"It's not like it is three and a quarter miles on heavy ground round a stiff track - Haydock is an easy track."

The wet weather has resulted in support for the mud-loving 2008 Welsh Grand National winner, Notre Pere, who is now trading as the 2/1 second favourite.

He fell at Down Royal last time and trainer Jim Dreaper is hopeful of a big run, if his jumping does not let him down again.

A full list of Betfair Chase odds is available in Stan James' horse racing betting section.