Jockey Harry Cobden is hopeful that stable star Politologue can shine and compete with Altior when he goes in the Queen Mother Champion Chase on Wednesday afternoon.

The bookies fully expect Altior to romp home to victory and he is priced at 1.40 to win. Nicky Henderson’s charge is looking for his 18th consecutive victory, a record which would see him move level with Big Buck’s.

Politologue came fourth last year in the same race, with Altior proving too much for his rivals. He has yet to win on his four visits to Prestbury Park but Cobden believes he can at least place this week.

“He is in good form at home and it is a good prize, so why not have a go at it. We’ve got it all to do to beat Altior, but he has a good chance of getting placed,” Cobden told reporters.

“I schooled him the other morning and he jumped really well and the horse is A1. It doesn’t worry me about his Cheltenham record. I will ride him to run well, we will just take our time and try to pick up the pieces.”

With Altior heavy favourite, punters may look at Politologue at odds of 26.00. Min is second favourite at 4.50 but Henderson insists his charge is in perfect shape again.

“We hope he can win his 18th consecutive race. Everything has gone quite smoothly,” said Henderson.

“The prep has been good. We have come in on a different strategy this year and we stopped after the Clarence House. He has been great.”