'This is potentially going to be my final season' - Daryl Jacob on his return from six-month injury layoff

A broken collarbone and shoulder surgery has kept Daryl Jacob on the sidelines for more than six months but the Grand National-winning jockey is delighted to return to the saddle at Gowran Park on Friday ahead of potentially his final season.

Jacob sustained the injuries in a fall at Newbury in late March and has been riding out for the past month in preparation for his comeback.

The rider, 41, paid credit to sports psychologist Michael Caulfield and the team at Oaksey House for their assistance in his rehabilitation.

Jacob said: “When I broke my collarbone I did a lot of damage on the ball and socket of the shoulder, so it was a long, drawn-out procedure, but I’m looking forward to getting back out there and I’ve been riding out quite a lot lately.

“Michael was unbelievable to me and I have to pay a massive thank you to him. It can be tough mentally as well as physically when you’re injured and it’s no secret I struggled with it quite a lot for the first few months.

“I could speak to Michael and go through things with him and it was a massive help. Sportspeople need good people to talk to and he’s a very good man.

“The team at Oaksey House have been great in getting me back. We’ve been working very hard in the last couple of months and it’s nice to get back race-riding.”

Neptune Collonges: Grand National winner for Daryl Jacob in 2012Credit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Jacob has the longstanding support of owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede and has been riding out at several yards in Britain and Ireland recently.

He said: “This is potentially going to be my final season and there’s lots to look forward to. We have great horses for the double green and Simon and Isaac have shown me unbelievable loyalty and support.

“I’ve been riding out plenty in Ireland and for Harry Derham, Paul Nicholls and Tom Symonds in England. They’ve been good supporters and hopefully that support will continue this season.

“I couldn’t have come back any quicker but it’s a nice time to return with the season on the horizon. I’m very appreciative of all the people around me who have helped me on the way back.”

Jacob’s comeback ride is aboard the Joseph O’Brien-trained Mr Percy, who won a 1m6f maiden at Gowran Park last month and switches codes in the 2m maiden hurdle (1.15).

“I like him and he’s a nice, strong individual,” said Jacob. “He won nicely on the Flat last time and showed a good attitude. He’s a nice jumper at home and we’re very hopeful. It’s a good ride to come back on.”

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