Murtagh places faith in Rip

Johnny Murtagh will ride Rip Van Winkle like he his “the best horse in the race” when he lines up for a mouth-watering renewal of the Investec Derby at Epsom tomorrow.

The three-time Derby-winning pilot had the choice of six runners for Aidan O’Brien in the premier Classic, including the unbeaten Fame And Glory, but it had become apparent in the last week or so that ’Rip’ would be the one, despite only finishing fourth in the 2000 Guineas.