James Cummings is expected to be confirmed shortly as Australian head trainer for global racing operation Godolphin.

Cummings would replace John O’Shea who resigned at the end of last month after three years in the job.

Neither Cummings nor Godolphin has so far made any comment.

O’Shea’s former assistant Darren Beadman has been Godolphin’s interim head trainer for just over two weeks.

Since O’Shea’s resignation, Cummings has been the front runner for the top job and reports suggest he will take up the position when the new season starts on August 1.

The Cummings-trained Prized Icon, winner of the Victoria Derby, is the co-favourite for next month’s Queensland equivalent.

The 29-year-old Cummings gained his licence in 2013 and trained alongside grandfather Bart until the death of the famous trainer in August 2015.

James Cummings’ father Anthony is also a successful trainer at Randwick and is in partnership with another son, Edward.

SYDNEY, May 23 AAP