Davy Russell rides to the rescue for Gordon Elliott after Jack Kennedy leg break

The broken leg that Jack Kennedy suffered following a fall at Naas on Sunday has prompted a return to the saddle for the recently retired Davy Russell.

Russell called time on a lengthy career in the saddle in December after partnering the Elliott-trained Liberty Dance to victory at Thurles.

The 43-year-old – who won the Grand National twice on Tiger Roll and the Gold Cup at Cheltenham on Lord Windermere – had been a key part of the team at Gordon Elliott's Cullentra yard along with Kennedy.

However, with the current Irish championship leader rider now out of action in the lead up to the big spring festivals, Russell has reversed his decision and will resume his career at Fairyhouse on Saturday.

In a statement issued on his behalf, Russell said: "After meeting with Gordon today, I have decided to come out of retirement and ride for the short period while Jack is on the sidelines.

"It’s only been a matter of weeks since I retired, and I actually rode more out this morning than I have in many years.

"We are a close team in Cullentra and after what happened last weekend, I want to help the team through a difficult few weeks.

"The plan is to resume riding in Fairyhouse on Saturday and Punchestown on Sunday."