Nakheel on way back

Mark Johnston is hoping that one-time 2000 Guineas hopeful Nakheel will be seen on the track again before the season is out.

The unbeaten Sadler’s Wells colt became the Middleham handler’s prime Classic contender after winning a Listed race at Pontefract on only his second start, but a pelvic injury cruelly interrupted his season.

However, Johnston has revealed the three-year-old is now back in his care and he will be trained with an autumn campaign in mind.

“He only came back the day before yesterday so there is a long way to go but at least he is in one piece,” said Johnston.

“He was being ridden for three weeks before he came back and it will be another 10 days or a fortnight and then he’ll be cantering. He’s back with the full intention that he will run this year.”