Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Sizing John could make his long awaited return from injury at Christmas.
The 2017 Festival hero hasn't been seen since finishing 7th in the Leopardstown Christmas Chase last year but the 8-year-old is reportedly ready to return to the same venue for his first start of the season.
The Jessica Harrington trained star was among the non runners at Prestbury Park to defend his Gold Cup crown having met with a setback but connections have confirmed that the popular chaser is in great form at home and close to a return.
Kate Harrington, daughter of Jessica, was extremely positive about one of their stable stalwarts when asked on At The Races.
We couldn't be happier with Sizing John. We'll step up his work this week. He might just surprise you by going over two miles over Christmas.
The news of the potential drop back in trip will be a major surprise but it appears as if the Grade 1 2m race at the Leopardstown Christmas Festival is under consideration for a horse that has impressed at various distances.
Sizing John spent much of the early part of his career chasing home Douvan over 2m before stepping up to Cheltenham Gold Cup glory but a drop back may suit a horse who could prove to be a fresh on his long awaited comeback.
It remains to be seen if Sizing John can return to the top of the tree but the vibes from the yard are clearly positive and there is a chance that the 2017 winner could just be the forgotten horse in the Cheltenham Gold Cup betting for 2019.
