Royal Ascot off the agenda for Herculean

Roger Charlton doesn't think Herculean is ready to take on Group One company and has ruled out a trip to Royal Ascot.

Herculean scored a win on his debut at Ascot in September but finished second at Newmarket in his first appearance of 2018.

Charlton has no intention of rushing the three-year-old's development and says he isn't looking at a Royal Ascot race for his charge.

“I was a little disappointed [with the Newmarket defeat], but I don't think he would want ground as fast as that. I don't think he was suited running into the dip. I think he wants 10 furlongs, but there is better to come,” said the trainer.

“I think it will turn out to be a good race. I think the winner [Wadilsafa] was very good, they have always thought very highly of him.

“I don't think we will be running at Group One level next and I don't think he will be going to Royal Ascot. I think we need to step back before we go forwards with him.”