L'Ami heading for Aon

Francois Doumen has confirmed Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup runner-up L’Ami an intended starter in the Grade Two Aon Chase at Newbury on Saturday.

The Chantilly-based handler is desperate to get a run into his totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup hopeful after a cold snap has prevented him from schooling any horses for two weeks.

“I would really like to run him, even on ground that could be dicey for him,” Doumen told The Times.

“He is very well in himself, like all my horses. I am happy with them but they all need a run because they need to come forward in fitness.

“I am in trouble – I sent runners to Sandown on Saturday and they came to win their races before getting tired at the second-last.

“I then realised that my horses are backward because of the cold spell we have had in France.

“I thought they had had enough preparation to run well but I got a slap in the face – I am not used to that, so now I am questioning myself. Cheltenham is approaching and I’m not happy. The horses need some racing.”