Varian could pull Defoe out of Curragh Gold Cup

Trainer Roger Varian is undecided if Defoe will run in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh on Sunday amid concerns over the ground.

The Newmarket handler could pull the plug on the expected showdown between his charge and Aidan O’Brien’s Cliffs Of Moher this weekend if the ground doesn’t suit.

Varian plans to walk the course early on Sunday before deciding if the John Porter and Newbury and Newmarket’s Jockey Club Stakes winner will line up.

He told Tattersalls: “Defoe has been declared to run in the Tattersalls Gold Cup, but his participation will depend on how quick the ground is and I intend to walk the course on Sunday.

“He has certainly earned the return to Group One company, winning at Group Two and Group Three level this season, while I don’t think the drop back in trip would inconvenience him on a track like this.

“He is training nicely and he would have a very live chance on form, but I wouldn’t want to compromise his season by running him on an unsuitable surface and a final decision over his participation will be made at the last minute.”