Grean is red hot for Tingle BY

GREANETEEN overtook Shishkin at the summit of the Tingle Creek Chase market yesterday amid bullish comments from Paul Nicholls.

Last year’s winner of the Betfair-backed contest went 10-11 with most firms, as Shishkin’s price headed in the opposite direction.

Greaneteen, 7-4 at the start of play, was given a vote of confidence by the Ditcheat maestro, who seeks a record-extending 13th triumph in the Grade 1.

Accomplishment of the mission would see the chaser join the stable’s class acts Kauto Star and Master Minded on two wins apiece.

And the possible threat of dual Cheltenham Festival winner Shishkin, out to 6-4 with the sponsors, is not giving Nicholls (above) sleepless nights.

“I think Shishkin has got to beat us at the moment,” Nicholls said.

“You’d have to say this is a home game for us in a lot of ways as he loves Sandown. Poor Shishkin had a few issues in the spring so he’s got to bounce back.”

Shishkin, 10 lengths ahead of Greaneteen in a Kempton Grade 2 last Christmas, is yet to be a confirmed runner.

Trainer Nicky Henderson and Alan King, responsible for Arkle hero Edwardstone, will check conditions first before committing to running.