Trainer Paul Nicholls has said that he is going to take his time with Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Denman, as the horse recovers from a heart problem.
Commenting to BBC Radio Five Live, Nicholls said that he will not rush the champion mount back into action after the steed's lay-off with an irregular heartbeat.
February's Aon Chase at Newbury could be the race that Denman returns to action in, but this would leave less than six weeks for the animal to prepare for a Cheltenham title defence.
According to the BBC, no horse has ever successfully defended the coveted title after returning this late in the season.
Stable-mate Kauto Star, who was favourite for the Gold Cup crown earlier this year, is "as good as he has ever been", however.
Nicholls, who also trained 1999 Gold Cup winner See More Business, claimed that the ride is going to be "a force to be reckoned with" in the coming season.
Trainer Paul Nicholls has said that he is going to take his time with Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Denman, as the horse recovers from a heart problem.