Odds lengthen on royal Derby hope after scare

Connections of Carlton House remain "extremely hopeful" the Investec Derby favourite will make Saturday's race, despite suffering a late setback.

Interest in the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Dante Stakes winner has been high due to the fact he is owned by the Queen. But yesterday it was revealed the colt had suffered a minor injury scare ahead of the Epsom Classic.

In a statement, Her Majesty's racing manager, John Warren, said: "Following a routine canter yesterday, Carlton House was found to have a small amount of filling in his near-fore joint at evening stables last night. We remain hopeful that he is on target for the Investec Derby on Saturday.

"Luckily, his important work is now out of the way. It would only be routine cantering that would be left to be undertaken for the remainder of the week. It could be the equivalent of a footballer straining his ankle."

Several bookmakers lengthened Carlton House's odds on the news. Ladbrokes were as short as 5-4 but he is now available at 6-4. William Hill now offer odds of 6-4 (from 11-8).