Flemenstar and Sir Des Champs are the star names among eight confirmations for what promises to be a fantastic renewal of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Peter Casey's Flemenstar is set for his second appearance over the three-mile (4800m) trip, having been caught close to home by Tidal Bay and First Lieutenant in the Lexus Chase over Saturday's course and distance on December 28.

The eight-year-old holds entries in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, the Ryanair Chase and the Gold Cup at next month's Cheltenham Festival.

The Willie Mullins-trained Sir Des Champs was a fast-finishing fourth in the Lexus following an indifferent round of jumping and will attempt to enhance his own Gold Cup claims.

The champion trainer could also saddle last year's Hennessy winner Quel Esprit while Sir Des Champs' owners, Gigginstown House Stud, also have the Tony Martin-trained Bog Warrior in the mix.

Mouse Morris is set to saddle China Rock after he ran well for a long way in the Lexus on his belated seasonal return.

Paul Nolan's Joncol, the Gordon Elliott-trained Roi Du Mee and Ted Walsh's Seabass complete the entries.

Flemenstar is reported in top form by assistant trainer Francis Casey.

"He did a terrific bit of work last week," Casey said.

"Andrew Lynch (jockey) said afterwards that he has never worked as well."