Maximus facing 'tough' task in Grand National defence

Handicapper Martin Greenwood also concedes I Am Maximus will have to produce a record-setting performance if he is to defend his crown

WHIP HAND: Paul Townend savours the moment after riding I Am Maximus to victory in last year's  Grand National at Aintree. Picture: Alan Crowhurst/Getty 

Willie Mullins is under no illusions about the task facing I Am Maximus after he was allotted top-weight ahead of his bid for back-to-back victories in the Randox Grand National.

The JP McManus-owned gelding was a brilliant winner of the Aintree spectacular last season under Paul Townend, but will have to carry 11st 12lb to victory if he is to repeat the feat on April 5.