L'Eau Du Sud set to Arkle test as Mullins eyes alternative Festival route

Willie Mullins is considering an alternative Cheltenham Festival route for L’Eau Du Sud, with the Arkle Novices’ Chase now his likely target.

The seven-year-old has not been seen since finishing down the field in the Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse back in December, but is back cantering at Closutton after a breathing operation.

L’Eau Du Sud was second-favourite for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle before that disappointing effort and would have been a major contender had he taken his chance.

Mullins has since outlined plans to supplement him for the Arkle at a cost of £10,000, with the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown on February 5 a possible prep.

Mullins said: “L’Eau Du Sud had a breathing operation a couple of weeks ago so he’ll probably go for the Arkle at Cheltenham now, all being well.

“He was a bit disappointing the last day in Fairyhouse but the breathing operation should help him. He’s back cantering now and seems in good form.”

It would be the second year in a row a Mullins-trained horse has been supplemented for the Arkle, with El Fabiolo finishing fourth 12 months ago.

Mullins has a host of possible Arkle runners, including Dysart Diamond, Appreciate It and Ferny Hollow, but has yet to finalise his team.

Dysart Diamond is the general 5-1 favourite after making a perfect start to his chasing career with two wins at Clonmel.

Appreciate It has not been seen since winning the Supreme last season, while Ferny Hollow made a winning return from injury at Punchestown in November.