Christmas Hurdle looks 'realistic' for Constitution Hill after minor setback says Nicky Henderson

Nicky Henderson is optimistic that star hurdler Constitution Hill can overcome his minor setback and return in the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day.

The unbeaten seven-year-old was due to make his long-awaited comeback in the Grade 1 BetMGM Fighting Fifth at Newcastle on Saturday, but he was reported lame following a racecourse gallop at Newbury last week.

Speaking on his X account, Henderson said: "He's miles, miles better this morning. I seriously hope we can get back on the road so we can continue his preparation. Obviously the Fighting Fifth is out, but the Christmas Hurdle is still realistic. He won it last year, so let's hope that is where we can get him out so we can get his great career back on track."

Following a workout alongside stablemate Sir Gino at Newbury, Henderson reported that his seven-time Grade 1 winner was lame and that an investigation into the issue would take place.

An inquest by a veterinary team concluded that bruising on his pastern was touching a nerve, but fortunately there was no signs of any damage to tendons or ligaments.

Sir Gino was confirmed as Constitution Hill’s replacement for Saturday, but Henderson said the latter would begin "gentle walking exercises" as he attempts to return to Kempton on December 26 and defend his crown.

Henderson added: "An MRI scan identified a bit of inflammation in his pastern that was touching the nerve, and that was what was making him sore. I'm glad to report that from being noticeably lame on Friday and Saturday, he's miles better this morning and we're starting some gentle walking exercises."

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