Skelton not shirking A Plus Tard challenge with Protektorat

Dan Skelton is well aware of the task facing Protektorat when he reappears in the Betfair Chase at Haydock – but will not shirk the challenge against A Plus Tard.

Third to Henry de Bromhead’s charge in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, he was over the top when only fourth in the Bowl at the Grand National meeting.

While Skelton knows A Plus Tard is the best staying chaser in training at present, the Betfair has always been Protektorat’s aim and the in-form trainer sees no reason to alter his running plans just because the Irish raider is bidding for a repeat win in the Grade One contest.

“He’s going to go to the Betfair. I’ve been very happy with him and he’s done everything nicely,” said Skelton.

“I’ve tightened up his pallet, so he’s had pallet surgery, a slight cauterization, just because he hasn’t had it done for two years.