Top two-miler Footpad out to show who’s boss in Naas comeback
Willie Mullins' classy chaser will take on four rivals in the Grade 3 Poplar Square Chase on Saturday
FOOTPAD is the star on show at Naas on Saturday as he makes his long-awaited comeback in the Grade 3 Poplar Square Chase.
Willie Mullins' Arkle winner was brilliant throughout the whole of last season and will start off his campaign against four rivals.
A current 7-2 second-favourite behind Altior for the Champion Chase, all eyes will be on the son of Creachadoir as he bids to maintain his record over the larger obstacles.
Mullins said: "Footpad seems to be well. He schooled well and he worked very well during the week, so we look forward to starting him off.
"The Poplar Square Chase is a nice type of race for him, and it's nice to get him out and back on the track.
"A second-season novice race like this is a lovely starting point."
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Among those taking him on will be Harry Whittington's Saint Calvados.
The French import looked a star in the early part of last season but went off too quickly in the Arkle and will bid to get his revenge against Footpad under different conditions.
"He travelled over on Thursday and had a very good trip. He had a little leg stretch this morning, and all the reports are very good. He's fresh and well, and we're looking forward to it," said the trainer.
"At the end of the day, what we've been looking for is some cut in the ground. We were aiming at the Haldon Gold Cup, but that wasn't to be because the rain came too late. We saw this race, the conditions suit him very well, and then 'Mr Footpad' turns up!
"We need to get our horse started. The Arkle didn't go to plan, but he's a lot stronger horse now than he was then.
"I hope he has a clear round and runs a nice race to set him up for a good season."