Trainer Graham Motion says Royal Ascot is a "strong possibility" for Animal Kingdom

Trainer Graham Motion said Royal Ascot next year is a "strong possibility" for Breeders' Cup Mile runner-up Animal Kingdom.

The 2011 Kentucky Derby winner turned in an outstanding effort at Santa Anita on Saturday when he got to within a length and a half of Wise Dan.

It was Animal Kingdom's first run since he fractured his pelvis in February.

All roads could now lead to Berkshire next June for the four-year-old colt.

"As much as I wanted to win the Kentucky Derby, it has always been an ambition of mine to come back (to England) with a really good horse," British-born Motion told the Telegraph.

"This was over a mile, but I'd probably prefer the Prince of Wales's Stakes over a mile and a quarter.

"I'd have no qualms about him handling Ascot - he trains on an undulating steeplechase track and doesn't mind fast or soft ground."