I trust trainer Nicholls - Smith

Kauto Star had his first run of the season in Ireland last Saturday

Owner Clive Smith says he would not consider moving the 2007 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Kauto Star from the yard of trainer Paul Nicholls.

Kauto Star was beaten by Denman in 2008 but won on his seasonal re-appearance.

"He's very straight and trains both as as best he can. He knows the best one will win on the day," said Smith.

"You wouldn't want to move a horse just to get an alternative opinion. I'm happy with what Paul is doing and I trust him to do it right."

Smith also revealed that the programme for Kauto Star, coupled with Denman's irregular heartbeat, which will keep his off the track until after Christmas, will mean last year's one-two in the Gold Cup are unlikely to clash until the 2009 Festival.

"We're going to take the same route as when we won the Gold Cup, which means he'll run again in the Betfair Lancashire Chase and then go to the King George at Kempton.

"After that we might take a break until the Gold Cup because Paul is a master at bringing him out on a particular day spot-on."