Charlton taking his time with Herculean

Connections say Roger Charlton is unwilling to rush Herculean ahead of his long-awaited return to the fray.

The three-year-old cruised home on his maiden at Ascot last September but has not been seen since, despite having entries for a number of this summer's big races.

Runs in the Irish 2,000 Guineas and the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot are both being suggested for the son of Frankel.

His lack of exposure has led to questions being raised about his form and fitness, but Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager for owner-breeder Khalid Abdullah, says they are biding their time, with the Royal meeting likely for his first outing of the campaign.

He said: “He is coming along fine. We have put him in the St James's Palace Stakes.

“Roger Charlton is happy with him at this stage, but I don't think he has really gone through the gears yet.

“He has been moving great this year and done well through the winter.”