O'Neill Champion Trainer 2014/2015?

There could be worst bets. 134 winners this season from 188 horses to have represented the stable. Just about his best ever season and he'll start the next one with More of That, Taquin Du Seuil, Holywell and Shutthefrontdoor all proven performers at Grade 1 level (or, in the last named case the potential to be one). With Nicholls looking to lack star names (although everyone said that this season) and Henderson's two stellar performers facing uncertain futures, the race may be more open than in recent times. O'Neill has never made any secret of the fact that a title remains an ambition and one could easily see McManus getting even more behind him if a challenge materialised. His stable is resurgent, lacks nothing in financial backing and will doubtless establish a clear lead before the autumn, particularly with Nicholls stating that he's only got around 15 summer jumpers this year. At attractive odds, a punt on O'Neill could yield plenty of fun.