It feels like Cooper has been built up only to be knocked down

By now, the ruthless streak that underpins Michael O'Leary's Gigginstown operation is well established.

It got a good airing at the end of 2013 when Davy Russell, then reigning champion jockey, was sensationally sacked from his position at number one rider over a cup of tea.

At the end of last season there was speculation that Cooper was on the brink of a similar fate, but idle talk had followed him around since his appointment. It now seems there might have been, after all, substance to the rumours, and he has seemingly failed to convince his employers in the interim he is riding well enough.

Few would argue that isn't a pretty harsh conclusion. To these eyes, despite his horrific injury record, Cooper looked to be riding better last term than at any stage since his appointment.

Glory day: Bryan Cooper lands the 2016 Gold Cup on Don Cossack

Sure, he had endured a few off-days, but O'Leary made clear when he appointed him as a 21-year-old that he was investing in him for the long term. Learning experiences were to be expected.

As such, it is regrettable Cooper is suddenly being dispensed with, and asking him to show the same diplomacy, humility and resilience as Russell rings a little hollow.

That isn't to say he won't bounce back in similar fashion, merely that it is disappointing he is being asked to do so at such a young age. He has ultimately been built up only to be knocked down.

Remember, including that brilliantly assured steer on Don Cossack in last year's Cheltenham Gold Cup, Cooper has ridden 26 Grade 1 winners for the firm since landing the job, plus another two previously.

You could hardly say he hasn't proved up to the job.