Epsom Derby 2018: John Gosden to run Roaring Lion in the Investec Derby rather and miss the French Derby

ROARING LION has been given the green light to run in the Investec Derby.

John Gosden’s three-year-old impressed when landing the Dante at York on his last start when bolting in under Oisin Murphy.

Gosden had originally suggested the French Derby would be the plan but connections have changed their mind.

Speaking at Epsom’s Breakfast With The Stars event on Tuesday morning, Gosden said: “I just like to see how horses are after a race before making grandiose plans.

“We were pleased with the horse (after the Dante), he ate up.

“He’s in splendid form and the owner is very keen that he goes for the Derby, so that is where he is going and I that’s the right call.”

If taking his place in the Derby, Roaring Lion will once again do battle with Saxon Warrior.

Aidan O’Brien’s three-year-old is currently the red-hot favourite for the Classic as he looks to back up his 2000 Guineas win.

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Roaring Lion and Saxon Warrior have met twice before, with Saxon Warrior coming out on top both times.

Their first battle came in last season’s Racing Post Trophy when O’Brien’s colt got the better of Gosden’s colt by just a neck.

However, the margin was wider when the pair last met at Newmarket in the 2000 Guineas.

Roaring Lion could only manage fifth, beaten over two lengths by Saxon Warrior.

Saxon Warrior is the 8-11 favourite, with Roaring Lion second favourite at 6-1.