Lion roaring to go in Derby

JOHN GOSDEN has confirmed that Roaring Lion is on target for the Investec Derby on Saturday week.

Gosden had toyed with the idea of running his impressive Dante Stakes winner in the French Derby, but revealed that owners Qatar Racing want to run in the Epsom Classic.

“Look, I’m very clear he paid Saxon Warrior, the Derby favourite, a compliment after he beat us in the 2,000 Guineas,” said Gosden, who enjoyed Derby success with Golden Horn (2015) and Benny The Dip (1997).

“You need speed in the Derby and this horse has a high cruising speed.

“I hope we can get back to the form that he showed when he finished second to Saxon Warrior in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last year.” Meanwhile, Gosden’s Cracksman, third in last year’s Derby behind Wings Of Eagles, is on course for next Friday’s Coronation Cup. Frankie Dettori will partner the Gosdentrained Oaks favourite Lah Ti Dar, along with Cracksman, but has yet to secure a ride in the Derby. However, he might find himself on Young Rascal. After Young Rascal, inset, stretched his legs at Epsom yesterday his trainer William Haggas was unsure if the colt’s regular partner, James Doyle, would be taking the ride.

“He might be required by Mark Johnston (trainer of Dee Ex Bee),” said Haggas, successful with Shaamit in the 1996 Derby.

Yesterday Haggas was talking up Young Rascal. “I do think he’s got a chance,” he said.

William Hill bet on the Derby: 8-11 Saxon Warrior, 7 Roaring Lion, 10 Young Rascal, 12 Hazapour, 14 bar.