Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins is early favourite to beat rival Gordon Elliott at the Cheltenham.

Elliott took the honours at Prestbury Park in 2017, ending a Mullins run of four successive festival wins.

However, despite Elliott taking the honours last time around – Bookmakers Ladbrokes believe Mullins is a more likely winner.

Mullins, who is gunning for his sixth title, is 10/11 to have more winners – whilst Elliott is 11/8.

Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott head to Cheltenham with two very strong teams including bankers such as Footpad, Samcro, and Apple’s Jade, so separating them in the betting was tough.

“However, we reckon Mullins has a bit more strength in depth and will take back the crown.”