Willoughby Court JLT doubt

JLT Novices' Chase favourite Willoughby Court has poison in a foot and cannot be regarded as a certain runner, trainer Ben Pauling revealed on Monday.

Willoughby Court has done most of his work and if the hold-up lasts just a couple of days, rather than four or five, Pauling is optimistic he will make it to Cheltenham and do himself justice.

However, an intended racecourse gallop on Tuesday has been cancelled and his progress over the next few days will be crucial.

Willoughby Court's setback is the second significant blow suffered by owners Paul And Clare Rooney in the past few days, following Friday's announcement that the Harry Fry-trained If The Cap Fits would miss the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle.