Nicholls in no hurry with Adrien

The Grade One-winning four-year-old caught the eye at Auteuil when he finished a close-up third behind Capivari and Footpad in the Prix Renaud du Vivier over an extended two miles and three furlongs.

Nicholls said: "He ran a blinder and was not beaten far.

"He was staying on well and that is strong Grade One form.

"He travels well and stays well and will be even better when he goes over three miles.

"It's hard to make a plan with horses like him. He needs a bit of time and we will mind him.

"Long term, he might go back to France in the spring for the Prix la Barka (Auteuil).

"Hurdle races in this country are hard for four-year-olds."