A minor setback to Melbourne Cup winner Protectionist has opened the door once again to a 2016 Melbourne Cup campaign for the Australian Bloodstock owned galloper.

A minor injury saw Protectionist miss a run in the Baden-Baden which has put serious doubt around a run in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe meaning connections may resort to bringing the talented stayer back to Australia.

“Missing the run at Baden-Baden at the weekend means it’s doubtful he’ll run in the Arc,” Lovett said. “With the Melbourne Cup being another month away (November 1), it’s possible he could come back to Australia.

“Everything is back on the table at this stage, but we won’t know for another two or three weeks.

“Logistically, the Melbourne Cup is still a possibility because of (trainer) Andreas (Wohler) is already bringing two other horses (Red Cardinal and Articus) down.” Australian Bloodstock’s Jamie Lovett told the Herald Sun.

Bookmakers are keeping him safe in markets with his odds currently being $26 with Sportsbet.com.au

View the latest Melbourne Cup odds

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au