Philip Hobbs is hoping that a wind operation will see Planet Of Sound return to his best ahead of next month’s totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The superstar has not looked at his best since his victory in the Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup last season and though he wasn’t too far behind Imperial Commander in the Betfair Chase at Haydock last October, he has failed to show his Grade One winning form.

After failing to get competitive in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Hobbs sent the horse for a breathing operation as he looks to guide his stable star to the sort of form that could see him challenge the likes of Long Run, Imperial Commander and Kauto Star in next month’s showcase event.

"He's a definite runner in the Gold Cup providing the ground does not go very soft," Hobbs explained.

"He choked again in the King George, which is what happened in the Ryanair Chase last year. He then won at Punchestown.

"We've had an operation done on him since the King George and we're hoping that will put things right for the Gold Cup.

"I'd imagine he won't go to Aintree so it will be Cheltenham and then back to Punchestown."