I Am Maximus absence expected to be minor blip

Connections of are hopeful the minor setback that led to the hero being been ruled out of the Bobbyjo Chase at will prove only a minor inconvenience.

The Willie Mullins-trained nine-year-old was due to contest the Grade Three he won 12 months ago en route to another bid for the Aintree marathon.

An infection scuppered that plan, but it is not considered to be too severe and he should resume work next week.

“He’s had a bit of an infection that has stopped him from running,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to JP McManus.

“He’ll be back riding out next week, so hopefully everything will go right for him from there on in.

“It’s a minor thing, just enough to stop him running today which is a pity as the race looked to really suit him.

“Willie is hoping all will be well early next week and he’ll be back riding out then.”