Kauto Star (7/2) will go head-to-head with stablemate Master Minded (9/2) and familiar rival Long Run (5/4f) in this year’s eagerly-anticipated King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.

Kauto is aiming for a record fifth King George title at the weekend but goes up against the impressive Long Run, who won this 12 months ago, once again after getting the better of his rival in the Betfair Chase in November.

That stunning victory for the 11-year-old put doubts over his long-term future in the sport to rest for now and he will have plenty of support on Boxing Day, as he looks to get the upper hand again.

Trainer Paul Nicholls confirmed the duo’s latest clash, saying: “I’ve had a chat with Clive [owner Clive Smith] and we’re going to run Kauto and Master Minded.”

Ruby Walsh will be on board the two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner with Daryl Jacob given the ride of Master Minded (12/1 Queen Mother Champion Chase 2012), while amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen will take his usual seat on-board Long Run in what’s expected to be a thrilling festive race.

The other horses vying for the £180,000 prize, in what’s the racing highlight over Christmas, include Henrietta Knight’s Somersby, Philip Hobbs’ Arkle winner Captain Chris (7/1), Diamond Harry (16/1), Nacarat (40/1) and Golan Way (50/1).