"But at the same time, Madison Du Berlais goes there with a great chance. Age might be a factor for the champion and, although he's won the race twice, he's also been beaten at Haydock.
"Those are two strong arguments and this is arguably the race where he is at his most vulnerable. Hopefully, it will be a race to savour."
Jim Dreaper is expected to give the green light to Irish raider Notre Pere if he comes through a schooling session. Last season's Welsh National winner fell in the JNwine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal on his return earlier this month.
But Dreaper said: "He came out of his fall fine."
Sky Bet: 10-11 Kauto Star, 9-4 Notre Pere, 9-2 Madison Du Berlais, 15-2 Imperial Commander, 12 Barbers Shop, 12 Tidal Bay, 20 Nacarat, Halcon Genelardais, 33-1 bar.
