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Third behind Native River and Might Bite in the last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup, the JP McManus-owned eight-year-old is officially 9lb well-in for the world’s most famous steeplechase and disputes favouritism with several bookmakers.

Martin said: “We think he’s fresh and well and I think he’s come out of Cheltenham good.

Anibale Fly, ridden by Barry Geraghty (centre) on the way to winning the Coral Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown back in April 2016. PIC: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

“Fingers crossed he’ll run a good one and get a bit of luck. No matter what you have in hand, you just hope he avoids bad luck and if he gets his own little bit of luck, he could run a really good race.”

Anibale Fly is third in the weights with 11st 7lb, but Martin is unconcerned by the burden. He added: “He’s a big, strong horse and he carried more weight in Leopardstown when he won at Christmas (Paddy Power Chase).

“Weight shouldn’t be a problem. It’s all about luck. If he gets good luck and avoids bad luck, that’s what we need.”

SOBOT’S SELECTIONS

Trainer Tony Martin. PIC: @AJMartin_Racing

AINTREE: 1.45 Storm Home, 2.20 Global Citizen (treble), 2.50 Terrefort, 3.25 MIN (NAP), 4.05 Art Mauresque, 4.40 Santini, 5.15 Danny Kirwan.

SEDGEFIELD: 2.00 Pc Dixon, 2.30 Massini’s Lady, 3.05 Snougar, 3.40 Frankie Ballou, 4.15 Rio Quinto, 4.50 Hepburn, 5.20 Birch Bank.

KEMPTON: 5.45 Beloved Knight, 6.15 Samharry (nb), 6.45 Puds, 7.15 Initiative, 7.45 Central City, 8.15 Casima, 8.45 Ubla.

Turf Talk: Anibale Fly needs a little luck around Aintree admits trainer Tony Martin