/ Editor / 13 April 2007 /

Grand National legend Ginger McCain believes Idle Talk's recent fall may be in the gelding's favour, as the stable aims for its fifth victory in the big race.

The eight-year-old has failed to complete on his last two starts but McCain has compared the horse with his three-time winner Red Rum, who also fell in a Grand National prep race.

Last time out the rider-less Idle Talk jumped around Cheltenham in the Gold Cup, won by Kauto Star, after unseating Jason Maguire at the fifth fence.

"Before Red Rum won his second National, Brian Fletcher was knocked off him at the first fence in a three mile chase at Haydock," McCain told The Mirror.

"He jumped round there and never missed a fence and finished in front. We got the race into him without the stress of being driven out by jockeys.

"The same thing applies to Idle Talk. He went to the last at Cheltenham upsides Kauto Star. He actually lengthened and attacked the fence going into it. It was unfortunate that Jason was knocked off him."

The gelding has reportedly schooled well since and all systems are go for another crack at the world's most famous steeplechase.

"He had a little pop over fences this morning and was very well in himself," McCain added. "We have only had him eight or nine weeks and are still learning about him, but having said that he is going there with a great chance.

"If you see him going out on the second circuit and getting into a rhythm he will definitely run a big race."

Idle Talk is currently trading at 22 for Saturday's race in a market, where two horses are starting to dominate the betting. Joes Edge (10) and Point Barrow (10.5) now stand well clear of their nearest market rivals Hedgehunter and Numbersixvalverde, who both trade on 15.5.

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