Leading Sydney jockey James McDonald's extended English sojourn will include rides at the prestigious summer festivals at Sandown and Goodwood.

Godolphin's retained rider in Australia, McDonald will fill the void created by William Buick's 30-day ban for a ride in France.

Last week, McDonald won the Northumberland Plate on Melbourne Cup hopeful Antiquarium and has rides at Sandown this weekend and will stay on for the Goodwood meeting at the end of the month.

"It's a bit unfortunate with the circumstances, but I'm looking forward to getting more opportunities and I'm happy to fill in the gaps when I can," McDonald told the Racing Post.

"They're two prestigious meetings and it's unbelievable to have the opportunity to be involved."

He will ride Secret Brief for Antiquarium's trainer Charlie Appleby in Saturday's Coral Challenge at Sandown.

"He's retained by us for a reason. He's a world-class rider, is very accomplished and is part of the team," Appleby said.

McDonald has a healthy lead over Hugh Bowman in the Sydney premiership with the latter taking a winter holiday for the next couple of weeks with nine meetings remaining this season.