The Meath man will take the reins for the high profile owner with McCoy fully backing the decision of his former boss to appoint Geraghty.

“His record speaks for itself and you don’t ride the big winners he’s had without being top drawer in every department," McCoy said to the Irish Times.

“Barry had a very close association with Nicky Henderson and I’m sure he would have found it difficult to walk away, but wearing the green and gold colours is the best job in jump racing.”

Geraghty has a formidable record in the big championship races and is particularly powerful in a finish, but he admitted it was a difficult decision to make in an interview with At The Races.

“It’s a great job to get. I suppose discussions started since Punchestown. I met up with JP last week and we discussed it. It fits in really well. “

“Obviously I’ve done seven years riding for Nicky and it’s been brilliant. We’ve had some great success, but there’s a lot of travel involved and a lot of time away.”

“I have a young family and had a little boy just a few weeks ago. It’s a busy house and to be away as much as I’ve been away over the last seven years takes its toll.”

“I’ve discussed it with AP and I’ve discussed it with Nicky. I’m more than happy with it and I’m I’m looking forward to it.”

Geraghty has been out injured with a broken shin bone and missed the Punchestown Festival but is expected to be back riding next month.