How many horses does Sir Alex Ferguson have running at Cheltenham?

Protektorat (Gold Cup)

Protektorat was beaten by a fair distance at odds of 5/4 in the Cotswold Chase in January, though trainer Dan Skelton has insisted that his stable star was not fully fit that day. Nonetheless, despite his bullish hopes, the eight-year-old is a 14/1 shot for the Gold Cup on Friday.

Protektorat will likely need to record a career best to win on the day, with Galopin Des Champs a strong favourite in the race. Though Skelton has insisted to the Racing Post: “He is one who will stay on the day and that will give us a big chance on the day. That is one of the bigger weapons in our arsenal – we are confirmed to like the track and trip.

“I think he’s being overlooked because his trainer didn’t get him as fit as he could have (on Trials day). I would love to prove them wrong. He was third in it last year when he was only half the horse he is now.”

Free £2 shop bet with William Hill every day of the Cheltenham Festival – plus all the fantastic daily coverage you need

Pick up your Daily Express every day of the festival for racing specials, day by day updates and free bet EVERY DAY.

Celebrate the biggest racing week of the year- the Cheltenham Festival. One of the most prestigious National Hunt Meetings of the calendar is not to be missed…and we’ve got a bumper week of amazing content and great reader offers. Find out more HERE