Nicky Henderson’s Altior sparkles in weekend workout with the Game Spirit Chase a possibility before Cheltenham

NICKY HENDERSON was left thrilled with Altior as he sparkled in a workout at the weekend.

Henderson's eight-year-old has not been seen yet this season and had a wind op in December.

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But he could now run in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury on Saturday week before a run in the Champion Chase at the Festival after impressing on the gallops.

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Henderson told the Daily Mirror: "He was very, very impressive - brilliant.

"He moved sweetly, didn't take a blow and he didn't make any noises.

"I was very pleased. It was absolutely excellent - as good as ever.

"If it was very soft at Newbury, he'd be very unlikely to run in the Game Spirit, but if it was very good, there's a distinct possibility that he will."