Denman has 12 possible rivals at Newbury

Last year's winner Denman heads 13 entries for the Aon Chase at Newbury on Saturday.

The nine-year-old, who has not been seen in public since winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup after being treated for heart problems, remains ante-post favourite at around 7-4 to complete back-to-back victories in the totesport-sponsored showpiece on March 13.

The Paul Nicholls-trained gelding easily beat three rivals in the Aon 12 months ago but looks like facing a stiffer test this time. His possible rivals include the Nicky Henderon-trained Barbers Shop and Colin Tizzard's Joe Lively, winner of the Letheby & Christopher Chase at Cheltenham recently.

Jonjo O'Neill has put in both Albertas Run and Exotic Dancer, while David Pipe can choose from his trio of An Accordion, Hennessy hero Madison Du Berlais and Or Noir De Somoza.

Charlie Mann's Air Force One, the Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained Imperial Commander, Peter Bowen's Snoopy Loopy, Henderson's Trabolgan and Niche Market from Bob Buckler's stable complete the list.