NEWMARKET trainer Charlie Appleby is excited to be working with William Buick and James Doyle (pictured) this year.
Godolphin swooped for the talented pair to be retained riders for Sheikh Mohammed's operation in 2015, with Buick first call for Appleby and Doyle the number one for his counterpart, Saeed bin Suroor.
Appleby said: "Having William Buick and James Doyle, you really can't get a better tag team than that. They are great friends and from my point of view two very good jockeys. "I have worked closely with William over the last 12 months and we have a great working relationship. James has been riding out for us in Dubai and is riding at the top of his game out there. They are two nice guys, who are a pleasure to work with."
While Buick will take the bulk of the rides for Appleby during the duration of the season, he also expressed his appreciation for Adam Kirby who has been integral part of the success he has enjoyed over the winter.
On Kirby, he added: "Adam Kirby is going to be my go-to man. He is a great team member."
* GODSMEJUDGE remains on track for the Crabbie's Grand National - despite being steered slightly off course at Bangor on Saturday. Trainer Alan King had hoped to give the nine-year-old a profitable spin over hurdles at the Welsh circuit, but he ended up finishing last of 11 runners in a three-mile handicap.
The Barbury Castle handler was initially convinced something was amiss with the 2013 Scottish National winner, but he has returned to Wiltshire in sound health.