Racing:Ruby Walsh believes Long Run deserves to be favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Despite Walsh getting the better of Long Run in both the Betfair Chase at Haydock and the King George at Kempton on Kauto Star this season, he feels the younger horse still has plenty going for him.

Long Run won both the King George and Gold Cup last season but Kauto Star, now 12, has gained his revenge. “Kauto is not getting any younger and Long Run beat us comprehensively in the Gold Cup last year,” Walsh told Racing UK.

“It’s over three and a quarter miles, and on a different track and a different day. He was only a length and a half behind at Kempton so he closed the gap from Haydock.

“Would I get off Kauto Star? No. Do I think Long Run should be favourite? Yes. I’m looking forward to it and I hope we all get there.”