“Matey did a lovely piece of work this morning and I am really chuffed with him,” said Miss Knight. “He’s absolutely coming to his peak and is in great form.”

Best Mate also holds an entry in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton on St Stephen's Day, but as long as the ground in Ireland is reasonable, he will run there.

Miss Knight and Best Mate’s owner Jim Lewis are still likely to be represented at Kempton, with last year’s King George winner Edredon Bleu and stablemate Impek both possible runners.

The 12-year-old Edredon Bleu beat Tiutchev by a length and a quarter in the Grade One race last year, but he has not run since disappointing in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter at the beginning of November on his seasonal bow.

“Somebody said to me today that I look relaxed – well, I don’t think I will be looking so relaxed next week,” said Miss Knight.

“Edredon Bleu will definitely go back to Kempton and Impek might run there as well. I’m not sure whether Jim will want them to take each other on, but there aren’t many other options for Impek as he’s so badly handicapped.

“I’ll have to talk to Jim about it because contrary to what some people might think, the ultimate decision will always lie with him.”

Edredon Bleu as is as low as 12-1 with William Hill for the King George, while Impek is a 40-1 shot with the same firm.