Henderson ‘couldn’t really say no’ to Ryan Moore

Nicky Henderson is eager to lean on Ryan Moore’s wealth of experience when the Ballydoyle number one takes the reins aboard Constitution Hill at Kempton on Wednesday night.

Oisin Murphy successfully guided the former Champion Hurdle hero in his triumphant Southwell Flat bow, but with the multiple champion jockey suspended, the Seven Barrows phone was red-hot on Thursday morning once Constitution Hill’s name appeared in the list of entries as candidates threw their hat into the ring.

It was former champion Moore who unsurprisingly got the nod once offering his services, with the Constitution Hill team eager to learn more from their outing in the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes before formulating plans for the summer.

Henderson told the Press Association: “Not surprisingly there were lots of agents on and with Oisin not available we had to go with somebody and Ryan was one of the applicants and you couldn’t really say no.

“There were a lot of others that I would have loved to use as well but I’m thrilled to have Ryan because he can help us going forward. What him and Oisin can do is help us figure out what level we should be thinking.”

Constitution Hill is 2-9 with Paddy Power to remain unbeaten in his new foray on the level in a race that attracted nine entrants.

One horse who will not be in opposition is Harry Eustace’s Melrose fourth Sea Of Kings, who was regarded as second-favourite with most bookmakers.

Richard Brown, racing manager for owners Wathnan Racing said: “He’s not going to run. After he worked the other day we felt he needs another week to 10 days.

“James (Doyle) rode him in a piece of work and him and Harry felt he just wasn’t quite there. He’s also works a lot better on turf than the all-weather so we’re going to give him a bit more time and wait for something else.”