Gold Cup defence the priority for Denman

A run in the John Smith’s Grand National seems unlikely for Denman unless something goes wrong in his pursuit of back-to-back Cheltenham Gold Cups.

The nine-year-old has not been seen in racecourse action since winning National Hunt’s blue riband last March after suffering from a fibrillating heart, but is on course for a return, possibly in the Aon Chase at Newbury on February 7.

Recent reports have suggested a start in April’s Aintree spectacular is high on champion trainer Paul Nicholls’ agenda, but he admits a defence of his Gold Cup crown remains Denman’s number one priority.