Niven remains uncertain of next step for Clever Cookie after York defeat

The nine-year-old uncharacteristically led from the start until about three furlongs out where he weakened out of contention and eventually finished well behind the winner Dal Harraild in the Listed Grand Cup Stakes.

This disappointing effort came eight days after he was fourth over the course and distance in the Group Two Yorkshire Cup, which he had won 12 months earlier.

“I would say being in front at the outset didn’t help,” said Malton-based Niven.

“He’s not a front-runner, he never has been and never will be.

“I think the day just got him stirred up a bit and he was very free.

“I’ve no idea at the moment when he’ll run next.

“He’s fine. He’ll just do his usual work. I’ve got a couple of options, but I don’t know which one he’ll go for yet.”

Paul Midgley is looking forward to saddling three runners in the Epsom Dash on Derby day.

The Yorkshire handler claimed the famous five-furlong handicap with Desert Law in 2015 and the veteran sprinter will bid for a second victory this weekend. The nine-year-old proved he is no back number with an impressive comeback success at Musselburgh last month. Midgley also hopes to saddle Line Of Reason and Olivia Fallow.

Rookie trainer Tom Clover hopes his first runner at Beverley will be a winning one today when Monsieur Glory lines up in the Hull FC Handicap.