Patient plan for Capri return

Aidan O’Brien says Capri’s shoulder injury means he is now being scheduled for an autumn return.

Last season’s winner of the Irish Derby and St Leger won a Group 3 at Naas on his seasonal reappearance in April but has been sidelined ever since.

O’Brien has bided his time in a bid not to rush him, with his initial target the Coronation Cup at Epsom on June 1.

The Ballydoyle-handler has suggested Royal Ascot could be an option but admits he is likely to err on the side of caution, with the autumn now more likely for the colt’s return.

O’Brien said: “He went to Naas and the plan was to go back to Naas again, but he bruised a shoulder and he was not 100 per cent for a while.

“I would imagine he would miss that part of the year and he’ll be back in the autumn.

“He is sound now to go back cantering again. I’d say Royal Ascot, you couldn’t rule out, but if I was put under pressure, I’d say he’d be an autumn horse.”