Derby blow for Murtagh

Johnny Murtagh was this afternoon ruled out of the mount on Vodafone Derby favourite Motivator after picking up a three-day careless riding ban in the last race at Lingfield.

He was found to have caused interference in the early stages of the Lingfield Leisure Club Median Auction Maiden Stakes, which he eventually won on the James Fanshawe-trained Miss Brush.

The jockey’s dates of suspension are June 4 – Derby Day – 5 and 6.

Jockeys’ Association chief executive John Blake said tonight: “I haven’t seen the race yet. I’ll have a look at it tonight and in the morning and we’ll take a view from there.

“We have until Thursday to decide whether to appeal. I’ve spoken to Johnny. Obviously he’s very concerned and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”