Racing:Dessie Hughes believes stable star Hardy Eustace has improved past the level that saw him land two Champion Hurdles in 2004 and 2005.
Sunday's AIG Europe Champion Hurdle hero has been given a clean bill of health after his heroics at Leopardstown and his legion of supporters could see him in action again before March.
Hughes confirmed the Red Mills Trial Hurdle at Gowran Park on February 17th as a potential next port of call before Cheltenham, where Hardy Eustace will attempt to regain his Champion Hurdle crown.
"There's not a bother on him - he's great," said the County Kildare handler. "The Red Mills could possibly be up next for him as it could just be a case of getting a bit more into him before Cheltenham.
"It's possible that he's actually improved and he's ready for Cheltenham again this year.
"His other two runs this year were exceptional too and he beat Mighty Man easily without coming off the bridle.
"The race didn't run to suit him at Cheltenham and he was only just beaten giving 4lb to the Champion Hurdle favourite so it is possible he's a better horse."