Gordon Elliott hopes that Fagan can pick up some prize-money in the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham today.

The six-year-old won his first three after joining Elliott and then lost very little in defeat when second to O O Seven at Musselburgh.

"We went to Musselburgh the last day and he was beaten by O O Seven, but I thought it was a very good run," said Elliott.

"He won't disgrace himself and will have a good chance of finishing in the first four or five. I wouldn't send him if I thought he'd be tailed off and I bet you there'll be more behind him than in front of him.

"He could sneak into a place, definitely."

Willie Mullins is making a powerful bid to win this race for the first time by saddling no fewer than seven of the runners.

His septet is headed by Long Dog who has won his last six starts that included Grade One races at Fairyhouse and Leopardstown.

B achasson, Balko Des Flos Bleu Et Rouge Gangster Open Eagle and Up For Review undoubtedly give the Closutton handler a formidable hand.