A decision on whether Binocular (10/1) takes part in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival will be left to trainer Nicky Henderson, Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, has revealed.

The six-year-old, who was beaten by half a length in last year’s renewal of the hurdling showpiece (Go Native (10/3 favourite) when sent off favourite, is struggling to shake off a muscle problem.

Henderson felt the problem was bad enough to pull him out of the Champion Hurdle last month but his chances could now hinge on a workout next week.

Berry said: “He’s had some treatment and we’ll just see how he gets on next week before deciding where we’re going with him.”

He added: “There is also Aintree and Punchestown to think about but it’s in Nicky’s hands and we’ll call it next week.”

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