Ruby Walsh set for Friday return

Ruby Walsh will return to the saddle at Newbury on Friday.

Walsh has been out of action since breaking his leg at Down Royal in early November.

With the Cheltenham Festival on the horizon, Walsh is keen to get as much practice in as possible and having taken part in some schooling after racing at Leopardstown on Sunday, he was in action at Paul Nicholls’ yard on Monday morning.

He partnered some of the biggest names in racing, including Kauto Star, Big Buck’s and Master Minded and came through with flying colours.

After his return on Friday he will then ride Niche Market, a possible Grand National mount, in Newbury’s Greatwood Gold Cup on Saturday.

“I can’t wait to get back. I feel grand, 100%,” Walsh told The Telegraph. “I feel no effects from the injury since I have come back to work and we have decided that I will be back riding at Newbury on Friday. Paul wants me to ride Niche Market on Saturday as well.

“Willie Mullins and Paul have many serious chances for Cheltenham and, to be frank, I can’t wait,”