WILLIE MULLINS did some late chopping and changing in his King George entries – pulling five horses after originally putting them in the race.

But it looks like the Closutton boss is all set to rely on Gaelic Warrior in the huge Boxing Day blockbuster.

Punchestown Races - Sunday November 23thAwesome John Durkan winner Gaelic Warrior looks all set to lead Willie Mullins’ charge in the King George Chase on Boxing DayCredit: PA

Rich Ricci’s ultra-talented seven-year-old downed stablemate Fact To File in a pulsating John Durkan Chase at Punchestown last Sunday.

And they are the only Mullins horses left in the Kempton cracker, with all the signs pointing to Gaelic Warrior being his sole runner on the day.

Mullins had initially entered five more of his stars.

Dual Gold Cup king Galopin Des Champs, Grand National hero Nick Rockett, Brown Advisory winner Lecky Watson and Grade 1 winners Il Etait Temps and Champ Kiely were all included.

But he removed them before the noon cut-off leaving just Gaelic Warrior and Ryanair winner Fact To File.

Gaelic Warrior is the general 6-4 fav, while Nicky Henderson’s 11-4 second-fav Jango Baie and Harry Redknapp’s 9-2 The Jukebox Man were also safely entered.

Both of those two were very impressive in winning their seasonal comebacks at Ascot and Haydock respectively last weekend.

Reigning champion Banbridge is in the line-up and will likely defend his title after his return in the Hilly Way at Cork.

Last year’s runner-up Il Est Francais was pulled up on his return to action in the 1965 Chase at Ascot but has been left in the entries.

More to follow.

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Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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