Derby hero Desert Crown ruled out of King George

Desert Crown has been ruled out of next week’s King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes at Ascot.

The impressive Derby winner had been due to clash again with Epsom third Westover in the 12-furlong Group One on Saturday week, but his trainer Sir Michael Stoute has announced he will not run.

The Nathaniel colt, who is unbeaten in three starts so far, was reported to be suffering a “foot niggle” on Wednesday.

Stoute told the PA news agency: “The colt won’t be going to Ascot for the King George.”

Desert Crown had been a shade of odds-on to win the King George at the start of the week.

In his absence, Westover is now a short-priced market leader. He chased Desert Crown home at Epsom before running away with the Irish Derby.

Bruce Raymond, racing manager to owner Saeed Suhail, said Desert Crown could not be risked, despite what he felt was a minor injury.

He said: "He has had a foot injury and has had a scan, although I don't know the final results of the scan. Michael (Stoute) just said to me he won't be able to run in the King George.

"There is nothing untoward, but whatever it is, they have caught it before it is too late.

"They have nipped something in the bud. His preparation would come too close to the race to press on with it.

"If it were a lesser horse, we might take a chance, but you dare not take a chance with a horse like this.

"You can't go to a race like this 95 per cent fit.

"Only time will tell, but hopefully he'll be able to get him back - although Michael didn't say anything to me - I'm thinking about York (Juddmonte International) and then the Arc."