Connections of Exotic Dancer are hoping it will be a case of eighth-time lucky when he takes on his old adversary Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday.

The 2007 Gold Cup winner has finished ahead of the Jonjo O'Neill-trained Exotic Dancer in their seven previous meetings, including when they were first and second in this race 12 months ago.

Only half a length separated the pair on that occasion and the market suggests they should dominate proceedings again.

"He's up against old rival meeting him for the eighth time," said Barry Simpson, racing manager to owner Sir Robert Ogden.

"I have to say eight is my lucky number.

"We were pleased with his first run and Jonjo reports the horse to be in great form. It's a big day for us tomorrow.

"We go there and it's an interesting race. It's not just about two horses but strictly on the form the two should dominate the finish as they did last year.

"We're not poles apart from Kauto Star. There was just half a length between them last year and we are rated 5lb inferior to him. We've accepted the fact that he's a better horse than us and he's achieved more than we have.

"We'll keep having a go at him and we might beat him one day, hopefully it will be tomorrow. In order to beat him we've got to perform to our very best and he probably has to under perform.

"Jonjo is delighted with the way he has come on since his race at Aintree. Fitness wise he has improved and we couldn't be happier with the horse.

"We haven't any excuses or as far as the ground is concerned, it's going to be good, good to soft.

"Everything is there to go out and play for."