Trainer Gordon Elliott is confident Don Cossack can return to competitive action ahead of next year's Cheltenham Festival.
The nine-year-old has been sidelined with a tendon injury over recent months, with his last competitive appearance coming at this year's Festival at Prestbury Park, where he achieved overall glory in the Gold Cup.
Elliott has now confirmed the Gigginstown House Stud is making good progress in his recovery from injury and he could return to racing action in February.
“He is back cantering and has been for a month. All being well we'll have a run February time,” Elliott said.
Should Don Cossack prove his fitness then Elliott is confident the Brown Gelding will be able to mount a defence of his Gold Cup crown at next year's Festival, with the race scheduled to take place on March 17.
He added: “He is in good form and doing plenty. The idea would be to have one run before the Gold Cup.”
