BOOKIES FAVOURITE PAT Smullen has ruled himself out of the running to replace Johnny Murtagh in one of racing’s top jobs this afternoon, according to RTÉ.

Smullen was fancied to succeed Murtagh as number one at Coolmore following Murtagh’s shock resignation yesterday.

But Smullen is to remain as stable jockey to Dermot Weld. He said:

I’ve got a very good job and I ride for some very good owners so I’m happy where I am.

I’m staying with Dermot and very happy to do so. He’s a world class trainer and he’s got some great owners.

I’m very happy in the position I am at the moment.

While there is no obvious contender for the position, the flamboyant Frenchman Christophe Soumillon was the 7-2 second favourite behind Smullen.

Aidan O’Brien’s son Joseph, who has ridden 34 winners this season, is next in the betting at 5-1.

Former British Champion jockey Ryan Moore (11-2), this year’s British title runner-up Richard Hughes (7-1) and Goldikova’s jockey Olivier Peslier are also in the running.

The markets are yet to react to Smullen’s reaction.