Jordan Gainford, who has been absent since fracturing vertebrae in a fall at Naas in December, returns to the saddle aboard Fury Road in the Grade 3 Tote.ie Bobbyjo Steeplechase at Fairyhouse today.

Fury Road is the outsider of four in an intriguing Bobbyjo that sees Irish Grand National winner I Am Maximus clash with Aintree Grand National runner-up Vanillier

Speaking on the Nick Luck Daily Podcast, Gainford said: “I’ve been back riding out over a week and everything feels good.

 “I’ve been doing plenty in the gym for the last six weeks and I’m feeling very strong.”

Gainford is known for his exploits with Shark Hanlon's Hewick having won the Galway Plate and American Grand National on the popular nine-year-old gelding.

“I bumped into Shark when I was injured and saw Hewick and he looks great. Fingers crossed I’ll get back on him," the jockey added.

 “I was gutted to miss the ride on him in the King George but fair play to Shark and all the team. He’s a very classy horse.

 “A good gallop and some nicer ground would be ideal for him (in Gold Cup at Cheltenham).”

Hewick and Gainford departed at the penultimate fence in last year's Gold Cup when still in contention.

Gainford also has three rides booked for Naas on Sunday including on unbeaten hurdler Wodhooh in the Grade 3 Winning Fair Juvenile Hurdle.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee