MALCOLM JEFFERSON mapped out an attacking policy towards the Champion Hurdle for Dato Star, despite the results of blood tests having caused the five year old to miss making his hurdling debut at Haydock today.

The gelding's reappearance has been eagerly awaited by Jefferson since his win in the Festival Bumper last season. Added to that, a fine performance on the Flat when second under 9st 6lb in the November Handicap at Doncaster, further whetted Jefferson's appetite.

But this latest setback has come as a disappointment. "I knew he wasn't really right even before we got the blood test results back, but he is coming back to himself."

Jefferson put Dato Star through his paces on Tuesday this week and the five year old worked very well. "Mark (Dwyer) said the horse was "flying" and that he would be very surprised if he wasn't absolutely fine - he did work very well.

Jefferson has no firm plans for Dato Star's next appearance, but favours two runs before attacking the best in the Champion Hurdle.

"He will be trained for the Champion - it could be easier to win than one of the novices!"