More Of That decision on hold

Connections of More Of That will wait before deciding if he will defend his World Hurdle title after he bled following a workout.

The JP McManus-owned seven-year-old, who made it five races unbeaten when defeating Annie Power at the Cheltenham Festival almost 12 months, was being lined up for a return next month.

However, following a disappointing return in November's Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury, More Of That underwent a breathing operation.

A return to Prestbury Park in March was on the cards for Jonjo O'Neill's charge, but after he was found to have bled following a workout on Wednesday morning it was decided to hold on a decision for a few days.

McManus' racing manager, Frank Berry, said: “He bled after working yesterday morning and we'll just have to see he is.

“You never know with these things. We might have more news later in the week.”