HARRY REDKNAPP has been left gutted with star horse The Jukebox Man ruled OUT of the first half of the jumps season.
It means he almost certainly will miss the defence of his King George Chase crown won in thrilling style last season.
A post from trainer Ben Pauling said on X: “The Jukebox Man has picked up a knock which frustratingly rules him out for the first half of the season.
“Both myself and Harry are understandably very disappointed but relieved it is not career-ending.
“He will receive the best possible care during his rehabilitation and we look forward to his return in due course.”
The Jukebox Man, who has won seven of his 12 career races, was last seen finishing eighth in the Gold Cup.
He had a wind op following that run after he made a respiratory noise during the Festival feature.
The surgery happened later than planned after more issues came to light.
Pauling said at the time: “He was OK the day after the Gold Cup but then was noticeably off on his near fore and basically the chiropractors and massage team have been in and he has pulled his bicep and his pectoral pretty badly.
“Ben (Jones, jockey) got off him and actually said he hung and lugged a little left so I have no idea where that has come from because the day before he was spot on.
Most read in Horse Racing
BILL PLEASE
Punters smash into Joseph O’Brien St Leger horse after jockey booking confirmed
STORM BREWING
Shortest-priced loser in racing history beaten by horse owned by Phil Foden
TEMPLEGATE’S TIPS
‘Looks set to strike after a promising debut’ – My Tuesday NAP
POL POSITION
Willie Mullins’ 50-1 Triumph winner has owner dreaming ahead of new season
“Whether he has got cast in his box, I don’t know, but when you put that with the fact we think he wants his soft palate tightening it was amazing he went as far as he did in the Gold Cup.”
More to follow.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.