Martin Brassil is happy with the progress of Numbersixvalverde with less than two weeks to go before his repeat bid for the Aintree Grand National.

Last year's Aintree hero has undergone his usual preparation over hurdles but caught the eye when staying on in fourth behind Homer Wells in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February.

He is racing off an 11lb higher mark this time around but Brassil sees no reason why he should not be involved once again. "He's progressed well since his last race and he wouldn't show his best on that heavy ground as he just looks after himself, he doesn't like to get hurt," said the Co Kildare handler.

"He was nice and fresh after the race and I was quite happy with the run. If he jumps round as well, and takes to the pace as well as he did last year, there is no reason why he shouldn't get to the third last (with every chance).

"If the weight is going to stop him it will stop him from there," Brassil said.