John Oxx is refusing to announce who will replace Mick Kinane as his stable jockey.

Kinane, who ended a glittering 34-year career in the saddle by announcing his retirement earlier in the week, decided to finish at the top after his mount Sea The Stars was retired after a hat-trick of 2000 Guineas, Derby and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe successes this year.

Fran Berry was Kinane's understudy at the Currabeg stables and is expected to take up the vacant position and, although Oxx has hinted that a decision has been made, he refused to confirm any rumours.

He would only say: "I'd prefer not to make a comment about it at the moment. It's pretty obvious, but I haven't spoken to my clients yet."

Oxx also said he would be delighted if Kinane fancied taking a trip on the gallops and he would be welcome at any time.

He added: "He seems very keen to keep riding. He has a couple of hunters to keep himself fit and I'm sure he will be down here to ride a bit of work."