JLT Novices' Chase favourite Willoughby Court is suffering with a foot problem and might not run at the Cheltenham Festival.
Ben Pauling's stable star, a winner at the Festival last March, has an abscess and it all depends upon how long it takes to clear up.
Jason Maguire, racing manager for Willoughby Court's owners, Paul and Clare Rooney, said: "He's got a bit of an abscess in his foot, which is frustrating, but we'll just have to see how he is over the next few days.
"It's very disappointing to come so close to Cheltenham but it can't be helped.
"His owners are very patient and are very happy to do what is best by him.
"We'll make a decision in the next couple of days whether he's fit enough to go to Cheltenham or not. If he can't go, he can't go."
Sky Bet's NRNB market for the JLT Novices' Chase is now topped by Willie Mullins stablemates Footpad and Invitation Only at 2/1 and 4/1 respectively.
Mullins has won the past three renewals of the race, with horses all owned by Andrea & Graham Wylie.
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