BRYAN Cooper is staying in Ireland while considering offers he has received to ride for a number of owners and trainers in Britain.

The jump jockey issued a statement yesterday to clarify his position following media reports that he was set to move to England.

“I have noted the media speculation in relation to a potential move to the UK,” he said. “I can confirm that there are no significant agreements in place at this time and I will continue to be based in Ireland.”

The Irish Independent reported that Cooper had agreed to ride for owner Andrew Brooks in Britain while remaining based in Ireland. Brooks has horses with trainer Venetia Williams and Dan Skelton, notably Katenko and Baradari.

Without referring to anyone specifically, Cooper said: “I have been asked to take up riding opportunities in the UK, and feel privileged to have been approached by a number of owners and trainers.

“I am as hungry as ever to continue building on the success I have achieved in the sport so far, and look forward to working on new opportunities while still being committed to my Irish connections.”

The 25-year-old has had a quiet summer on the track, with just eight winners so far this season. In July he was released by Gigginstown House Stud as their retained rider after two and a half years in the job. He won the 2016 Gold Cup for Gigginstown aboard Don Cossack.

A former champion conditional rider when based with Dessie Hughes, Cooper came to wider prominence with a treble at the 2013 Cheltenham Festival.

BRYAN COOPER’S

IRISH WINNERS

2016-17 45 wins

2015-16 94 wins

2014-15: 49 wins

2013-14: 48 wins