'He's a hell of a horse' - Tom O'Brien can't wait for Thyme Hill at Aintree

Tom O'Brien has waited 17 years to be Philip Hobbs's top jockey and he cannot wait to enjoy the fruits of his new role when partnering stable star Thyme Hill at Aintree on Saturday.

O'Brien took the number-one spot at the Minehead stable following the shock retirement of Richard Johnson last weekend. He has been at the yard since 2004, and throughout that time Johnson enjoyed big days with the likes of Defi Du Seuil, Captain Chris, Menorah and Planet Of Sound, but O'Brien cannot wait for his shot at top-level glory.

That will come as soon as Saturday when Thyme Hill heads north for the Ryanair Stayers Hurdle where he will renew his rivalry with Paisley Park, while Sire Du Berlais and Roksana could also appear.