Ferdy Murphy has expressed his concern that “Cheltenham’s going to come a season too early” for Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase hope The Hollinwell (8/1 joint second favourite ante-post on Betfred.com).

The West Witton trainer has revealed he and jockey Graham Lee have spoken about whether his former “delinquent” has progressed enough to handle the 2m 5f, Class 1 contest on Thursday week.

The betting suggests Rivaliste (6/1 favourite ante-post) and Sunnyhillboy will run big races but Murphy is optimistic his seven-year-old has matured enough to handle the step up.

“He’s worked very well and he’s in good form, so it’s fingers crossed. If he gets a bit of luck in running in the Jewson I think he’ll be there or thereabouts,” he told Sky Sports News.