Tony McCoy is hoping Binocular improves ahead of the 2011 Champion Hurdle after the jockey was left underwhelmed by his performance at Sandown on Saturday.

The superstar will head straight to Cheltenham after his facile success in the totesport 0800 221 221 Contenders Hurdle but McCoy believes that he will have to improve if he is going to defend his title at Prestbury Park.

Paddy Power reacted to the performance by easing the superstar to 3/1 for next month's Festival and the firm are still offering all new customers a free £100 bet on the race.

Sent off at 1/10, Binocular passed stablemate Ruthenoise at the last hurdle after jumping unenthusiastically throughout the race and McCoy explained:  "It wasn't impressive, but for whatever reason it was a similar performance to last year.

"I don't think he jumped as well as he can today, but with just three other horses you are being careful in case one falls or something like that.

"He was more impressive at Kempton, but you can't go on what he did here in a race like this.

"He seems in good form, he's progressing and hopefully we will get him there (Cheltenham) the same as last year."

Binocular has already tasted Grade One success this season in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, but with the likes of Hurricane Fly (4/1, Paddy Power), Peddlers Cross (6/1, Paddy Power) and Menorah (5/1, Paddy Power) all heading for next month’s Festival he will have to be at his very best if he is going to reign supreme in this year’s Champion Hurdle.