Murtagh hopes to be fit for Derby

Johnny Murtagh must pass the racecourse doctor today before being allowed to ride leading fancy High Chaparral in the Vodafone Derby.

He gave up his final ride on Oaks day on medical advice.

But the Irishman, who landed the premier Classic on Sinndar two years ago, is confident he will be fit to take the plum mount on the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt who is vying for favouritism with stable-companion Hawk Wing.

‘‘I had a bit of a sore throat and I was feeling wet and miserable after the Oaks,’’ said Murtagh, who rode fourth-placed Starbourne in the fillies’ Classic.

‘‘The doctor said I would be better off going home and having a Lemsip.

‘‘But I am sure I’ll be fit to ride.’’