'He will absolutely love it' - O'Keeffe fancies A Plus Tard to star in Gold Cup

Darragh O'Keeffe is convinced the WellChild Cheltenham Gold Cup will bring out the best in A Plus Tard and the rider will not need to be asked twice if the call comes from Henry de Bromhead to partner the seven-year-old in next month's festival showpiece.

Rachael Blackmore opted to ride Minella Indo in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas, which allowed O'Keeffe to come in for the ride on A Plus Tard, and he grabbed his chance with both hands, collaring Kemboy and Melon in the dying strides to win his first Grade 1.

Blackmore will have a big decision to make again, although Minella Indo was pushed out to 20-1 by some firms for the Gold Cup after his disappointing display in the Irish equivalent at Leopardstown, so it would come as no surprise if she changed her mind next month.