IMPERIAL COMMANDER is likely to make his return to action in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on November 21.
The eight-year-old enjoyed a fantastic campaign last season, registering victories in the Paddy Power Gold Cup and the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham.
He disappointed on his final start in the Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup but Carl Llewellyn, assistant to trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies, feels the gelding will still be a force to be reckoned with given the right conditions.
“The plan is for him to go straight to Haydock for the Betfair Chase,” said Llewellyn. “He does all his prep work in Ireland but he came back a few weeks ago and he’s in good form at the moment, so we’re very happy with him.
“The ground was just too testing for him at Punchestown as he travelled very well but a stiff three miles on heavy ground is not for him.
“There is no reason why he shouldn’t still be improving and we’re looking forward to seeing how he gets on this season.”
Knowhere is reported to be at the top of his game as he goes in search of a second successive victory in the totetentofollow Old Roan Chase at Aintree on Saturday.
The 11-year-old edged out Exotic Dancer to claim the Grade Two prize 12 months ago but disappointed on his three subsequent outings.
Butl Llewellyn has been thrilled with the gelding’s recent homework and believes he is well up to making his presence felt on the return to Merseyside.
“Everything has gone smoothly with him since he came back in,” said Llewellyn. “He’s in very good form and he produced his best run of the season in the race last year.
“He obviously goes well fresh and he’s produced some good performances after running first time out as well.”
