Andrew Cooper has said he is delighted at the dramatic u-turn that could see New Approach line up for Sunday's Derby.

The colt, which remained favourite for the race throughout the winter, was originally stated by trainer Jim Bolger to have been left in by mistake at the latest entry stage.

But connections now appear to have had a change of heart and last year's Dewhurst Stakes winner is now firmly back in the frame, despite being beaten twice since that October win at Newmarket.

"I am delighted to see New Approach in there," said Cooper, Epsom's clerk of the course.

"For the first time in the entry system Mr Bolger has physically had to state that he is leaving the horse in.

"I know it's not the final declaration stage but we are delighted nevertheless.

Bolger told the Racing Post that the horse would race 'If the ground is soft or on the good side of good.'

Cooper described the going as good to soft and, despite Monday starting dry, rain was expected later and overnight.

"The forecast for rain ranges from six millimetres to up to an inch. We'll just have to see what comes," he said.

"That could be the last bit of appreciable rain for a few days though we could get some light rain at the end of the week."

"We've got three supplementary entries which is excellent and we are in for a tantalising race."