Richard Johnson goes to Musselburgh for two rides on Thursday return

Richard Johnson will make his return to racing at Musselburgh on Thursday with the champion jockey booked for two rides on his comeback from injury.

Johnson, who was unveiled as an ambassador and columnist with the Racing Post yesterday, broke his arm in a fall at Exeter and will be having his first ride in 37 days.

He has two rides for trainer Olly Murphy at Musselburgh – where he has a 19 per cent strike-rate. He partners Made For You in the 1m7½f handicap hurdle (1.30) and Dubai Guest in a bumper (3.52).

Johnson trails Brian Hughes by 20 winners in his quest for a fifth consecutive jockeys' title, after his rival won on Pammi in the final race at Musselburgh on Wednesday.

Betfair Sportsbook make Hughes a 1-8 chance to capture the championship but Johnson is ready for the challenge.

Speaking on Tuesday, he said: "I’ve got a lot of ground to make up but there’s a small chance and the weather’s definitely been in my favour. Brian hasn’t had the chance to ride as many as he’d like. It’s going to be hard work but we’ll definitely give it a good go.

"If I were to lose it this year I think, if anything, it would make me even more keen to try and put the record straight. You’ll definitely see me next year regardless!"

Another title race development could occur away from Musselburgh tomorrow, with Hughes down in London at the BHA headquarters to appeal a four-day whip ban. He was originally suspended by the stewards at Wolverhampton on Sunday for using his whip down the shoulder of The Dancing Poet in the final furlong of a jumpers' bumper.

Hughes is booked to ride against Johnson aboard Away At Dawn in the concluding bumper at Musselburgh.

One of Hughes's main supporters Donald McCain is also appealing against a decision at the BHA headquarters which could provide the title leader with a valuable extra win.

McCain is appealing against the decision of the stewards at Bangor to reverse the placings between the trainer's Minella Trump, who was ridden by Hughes and initially passed the post first, and the Nicky Henderson-trained The Cashel Man on February 7 due to interference.

You can now place bets with Betfair without leaving the free Racing Post app. Download or update to the latest app at racingpost.com/mobile to get started