De Bromhead confirms Monalee setback

Cheltenham Gold Cup contender Monalee is unlikely to run again this season, according to trainer Henry de Bromhead.

Monalee, who was fourth in last year’s Gold Cup, was being prepared for a return to The Festival in March but De Bromhead has revealed he has suffered an injury setback and is unlikely to be fit for the 2021 showpiece.

“We’re not quite sure how long he’ll be out for yet, but he’s unlikely to be back this season. We’re just waiting for more information, then we’ll see,” he told Sky Sports.

“It’s very disappointing for that to happen, but hopefully we’ll get him back on track again.”

The 10-year-old looked in good shape when coming in third on his reappearance behind Presenting Percy and Kemboy at Thurles in November but a tilt at the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day was blocked due to travel restrictions.

If Monalee is ruled out of the Gold Cup, it would leave A Plus Tard and Minella Indo as De Bromhead’s likely leading representatives for the Gold Cup.

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