Magician to be left in Derby

Irish 2,000 Guineas hero Magician is to be left in the Investec Derby at today’s confirmation stage.

Previously impressive in winning the Dee Stakes at Chester over 10 furlongs, the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt dropped back to a mile on Saturday and ran out a stunning winner of the Curragh Classic.

Afterwards, Coolmore supremo John Magnier suggested “tongue in cheek” that he could go for the Derby, although Royal Ascot and the St James’s Palace Stakes would be the more obvious route.