Cheltenham Gold Cup option for Al Ferof

Al Ferof is to get an entry in the Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup after his valiant effort in defeat in the King George VI Chase at Kempton.

Now trained by Dan Skelton, the John Hales-owned grey occupied third place in the Christmas highlight for a third year in succession.

Though he will be given an option to run in the Gold Cup, Al Ferof is more likely to be seen at the Cheltenham Festival in the Ryanair Chase over a shorter trip.