Connections of Grands Crus have not ruled out giving consideration to the Cheltenham Gold Cup for their talented novice chaser.

Last season’s Ladbrokes World Hurdle runner-up has won both of his starts over fences at Cheltenham and Newbury following his switch from smaller obstacles.

While Somerset racehorse trainer David Pipe intends to stick to novice events for the foreseeable future, he admitted the Gold Cup was “in the back of our minds”.

“It was a workmanlike performance at Newbury and he jumped well,” said Pipe.

“His jumping came under pressure up the home straight and I think you’ll probably find out in time the second horse (Sonofvic) is no slouch.

“Apart from one mistake at Cheltenham, he’s been foot perfect. He’s schooled well at home but you never know until they go in an actual race.

“I would imagine at the moment we’ll stick to the novice route. He may have an entry in the Gold Cup. We haven’t discussed it with the owners.

“It’s a long way off, but it’s in the back of our minds.”

Tough and consistent staying hurdler Lough Derg has been retired following his latest run at Ascot.

Connections of the David Pipe-trained 11-year-old decided to call it a day after he was pulled up behind Overturn in the Coral Hurdle.