Talented 2009 totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup fourth Neptune Collonges is close to a return to action after returning to training recently.

Paul Nicholls’ superstar has not been seen since chasing home Kauto Star in the world’s most prestigious jump race and while there are no plans in place for John Hales’ gelding, he could have a crack at the Hennessy Gold Cup, a race Nicholls was successful in with Denman in 2010.

The nine-year-old is more famous for his two victories in the Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup and there is no doubt that if he were to return to full fitness, he could be capable of laying down a serious challenge to the likes of Imperial Commander in 2010/11.

"He looks fantastic and is cantering away. I'm very, very happy with him, he looks great. I haven't discussed any long-term plans with John but I suspect we'll have an entry for the Hennessy Gold Cup but he's cantering and started last week," the trainer explained.

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Cheltenham Gold Cup odds - Ladbrokes
3m 2f, Cheltenham Festival, March 2011
4 Kauto Star, 5 Imperial Commander, 12 Punchestowns, 12 Denman, 12 What A Friend, 16 Somersby, 20 Burton Port, 20 Planet Of Sound, 20 Cooldine, 40 Carruthers, others on request, (1/4 odds 1,2,3)