Nigel Twiston-Davies believes Imperial Commander (6/1 with Betfred) can again give 4/6 favourite Kauto Star a real run for his money in the eagerly-awaited King George VI Chase at Kempton.

Imperial Commander was only narrowly beaten a nose by the double Gold Cup hero at Haydock in the Betfair Chase last month, and Twiston-Davies reckons his charge is improving all the time ahead of the Boxing Day showdown.

Aside from the obvious threat posed by Kauto Star, the likes of 12/1 shot Cooldine, Madison Du Berlais (8/1) and Alberta’s Run (12/1) all have claims in the three-mile festive highlight.

But an upbeat Twiston-Davies told At The Races: “He’s all right and is looking forward to the King George.

“We would absolutely expect improvement from our horse. Why is Kauto the only one who is allowed to improve for a run?

“Our horse didn’t run well in any of his previous runs over that distance (three miles plus), but the way he won the Paddy Power Gold Cup told everybody he did stay.”

Twiston-Davies also admitted his horse is being primed for the Gold Cup in March as he continues to step up his preparations for the Festival.

But for a second-last mistake at Haydock, Imperial Commander would surely have got up to deny Kauto Star on the soft ground at Haydock and many believe his stamina is not in doubt and that 10/1 represents a big price for the Gold Cup.