Gordon Elliott says Gerri Colombe will have no issues with the ground as he bids to defend his title in the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal this afternoon.

The Saddler Maker gelding bookended his season with Grade 1 victories last term, the first coming on his seasonal debut in this race.

He got up late on to pip Envoi Allen in soft going then but Elliott doesn't feel that a cut in the ground is crucial to his charge.

Elliott said: "He's going to come on again (from the run), the same as last year but he is in good form and we are happy with him.

When asked about the good to yielding ground, he said: "Look, I think Gerri is actually better on that type of ground so, once it is safe, we will be happy.

"It looks like they have a lovely cover of grass on it.

"You are always nervous with those horses and you want the ground to be as safe as it can be, but I don't think he is as much of a mudlark as everyone thinks."