Carruthers, the flag-bearer of Mark Bradstock’s Letcombe Bassett yard, near Wantage, returns to action at Sandown tomorrow.

The 11-year-old, who won the 2011 Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury, was being prepared for the Kerry National at Listowel in September when he knocked a joint on his off foreleg.

The injury has delayed his reappearance, but Bradstock has his charge fit for the 32Red.com HBLB Handicap Chase.

Nico de Boinville takes the mount as Carruthers is seen in action for the first time in 294 days, since pulling up at Uttoxeter in February.