Coneygree won't run this season

Connections of Coneygree are adamant he will "make a full recovery" after the Cheltenham Gold Cup winner was forced on to the sidelines this season.

The Mark Bradstock-trained eight-year-old gelding is suffering with hock issues and will not defend his crown at the Cheltenham Festival next March.

Coneygree remains in Newmarket Equine Hospital for further treatment, but hopes are high he will return to his very best next season.

"He's still being assessed in Newmarket, but we've decided it's prudent not to try to get him ready this season," Sara Bradstock, wife and assistant to the Oxfordshire handler, told the Telegraph.

"He has a carefully planned rehabilitation and everyone believes he'll make a full recovery for next season."