David Dennis is mapping out a plan for Doctor Phoenix after he made it two wins from three chase starts when scoring at Haydock last week.
David Dennis is mapping out a plan for Doctor Phoenix after he made it two wins from three chase starts when scoring at Haydock last week.
The lightly-raced Dr Massini gelding beat two useful form yardsticks in a select but competitive three-runner contest at the Merseyside venue and Dennis believes ground is the key to him.
He said: "An easy surface is important to the horse and I think he'll get further in time. He's open to any amount of improvement and there is another graduation chase coming up at Ascot which I might give him an entry for."
The Worcestershire-based handler is enjoying a profitable time of it from his Tyre Hill stables and an across-the-card double on Monday at Ludlow and Chelmsford City continued that rich vein of form.
Final Nudge was most impressive when winning a novice hurdle race at Wincanton last Thursday and Dennis thinks he may make up into a decent performer.
He said: "He definitely set the standard at Wincanton, but I was impressed with how well he won.
"Confidence is a big thing with him because he took a heavy fall when about to win a point-to-point race earlier in his career and he hasn't forgot about it.
"Ground is also key to him as he needs it at least soft to show his best.
"He brings good bumper form to the table, most notably when fourth in a Listed race behind the subsequent Aintree winner Barters Hill at Newbury, so there is every chance he could make it to the top."