Willie Mullins believes Saturday's John Smith's Grand National favourite Hedgehunter is better and stronger than 12 months ago, when he fell at the final fence.
The Trevor Hemmings-owned nine-year-old has been well supported in recent weeks since landing the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse, and Mullins is hoping for a good performance despite his weight of 11st 1lb.
"I think he is stronger this year, but he has enough weight," he said. "However, I think he is better, and his form has proved that.
"He got very tired last year and they had raced from early on, which didn't suit any of the horses that were up there. Consequently Amberleigh House came from behind and did them all.
"His win in the Bobbyjo was his first Graded chase win and everything has gone according to plan, so we are very happy.
"We had decided to stick over hurdles with him this year and then when the weights came out give him one run over fences.
"I didn't expect him to win and I was just hoping he would finish in the first three, but he jumps from fence to fence and we were delighted with the result.
"He would probably prefer softer ground. I think it might disadvantage some of the other horses. Our fellow will go on both, but he travels very well on softer ground."
Mullins most fears one of his rivals from last year, who went on to finish second.
"I think that with a clear round, Clan Royal has as good a chance as any horse I have ever seen in the National, expect for maybe Rough Quest when he was second in the Gold Cup before going to the National," he added.
Hedgehunter was among the big guns that have stood their ground following the final 48-hour declaration stage for Saturday's showpiece.
Le Coudray tops the weights for the Aintree marathon, while Amberleigh House, winner 12 months ago, and runner-up Clan Royal are both confirmed runners.
PA