07 February 2023 , 15:16
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Champion Chase favourite Edwardstone bruised a foot when he ran at Cheltenham Festival Trials Day but is still expected to line up in next month’s two-mile showpiece.
Trainer Alan King revealed that his jumps star had been lame for most of last week but described the issue as “small”.
Rumours had been swirling about the fitness of Edwardstone before King allayed fears he was out for the season via his weekly column for the Racing Post Weekender.
"Edwardstone was unfortunately lame for most of last week,” said King. “I’m pleased to say he has a shoe back on now but he had a bruised foot after his run in the Clarence House at Cheltenham.
"It took five or six days to get him back sound. We did some x-rays which were all clear and provided there are no further problems then it’s not a concern.
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"We’ve had a little niggle with him but he’s got plenty of time. It’s only a small setback."
Edwardstone won five of his seven starts in novice chases last season as he clinched the Arkle and began his senior campaign with a nine lengths victory in the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown.
He went down by a battling head to Editeur Du Gite in the rearranged Clarence House Chase at Cheltenham last month in which 2022 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Energumene was third.
Edwardstone is 6-4 joint favourite with Energumene in William Hill’s odds for the March 15 showpiece.