Johnny Murtagh is eagerly looking forward to the reappearance of St Nicholas Abbey in the Go Racing In Kildare Festival Finale Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

The Montjeu colt, impressive winner of the Racing Post Trophy last year, was sent off the red hot evens favourite for the StanJames.com 2,000 Guineas but could only manage sixth behind Makfi.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt has been sidelined since after suffering stiffness in his hindquarters but Murtagh is hopeful he can make a winning return in the mile and a half Listed race on Sunday.

“He gave me a real nice feel when working after racing at the Curragh last month. He has always been a good home worker, and I'd say he was happy to be back on the track. Hopefully he can win on Sunday. He showed so much potential at two, and it would be a pity if he didn't get to show how good he is,” said Murtagh.

The champion jockey was speaking at Navan where he rode a winner on Don Carlos part of a 1,113/1 four-timer for trainer Aidan O'Brien.