Sidelined Russell 'would give anything' to be back aboard Envoi Allen soon

Davy Russell will return to the Mater Hospital in Dublin next week for more x-rays as his recovery from fractured and dislocated vertebrae continues and he is itching to be reunited with Envoi Allen when he does return next year.

The 41-year-old has been out of action since the second Sunday in October following a horror fall from Doctor Duffy at the first fence in the Munster National at Limerick and is still unsure of a possible return date.

Russell said: "It's all in the hands of the doctors and x-rays. They will fill me in more on how my progress is going on December 17 when I head back up to the Mater for more x-rays and we might find out then what date we're looking at to get the brace off. The fusion of the vertebrae has gone well.

"There is no set date for my return yet. They take x-rays every couple of weeks to ensure everything is staying where it's supposed to be. It's a lot easier now and I'm in very little pain. I have good movement and I'm up and doing as much exercise as I'm allowed to do."

On the different type of Christmas he will have this year, Russell said: "It's going to be a bit strange all right, but I'm really looking forward to it. I've actually never missed the racing over Christmas before. Not only am I missing riding the horses, but I'll be missing going to Leopardstown as well. I'll be glued to the television and I suppose I'll experience it the same way as the rest of the public will."

Asked what it has felt like watching Envoi Allen in action over fences, Russell replied: "I had goosebumps watching him. I'd give anything to be on his back and, fingers crossed, I can get back on him before too long.

"He has been breathtaking and the sky is the limit with him."

Russell was also successful on Samcro in the Marsh Novices' Chase back in March and he feels a step up to three miles in the Savills Chase would not pose a problem for the 2018 Ballymore winner.

He said: "Samcro is a very talented horse, but he's not the easiest to keep healthy. That's been well documented. I always imagined him being a three-miler. I think three miles around Leopardstown will suit him. For such a big horse, he is quite light on his feet. I couldn't see three miles being a problem for him."

Davy Russell career details

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