1

Decorated Knight

Gained his first G1 victory at Meydan in March, landing another one at The Curragh in May and looked briefly like defeating the brilliant Highland Reel in a G1 at Royal Ascot last month, that rival fighting back to win. Best when delivered late.

2

Desert Encounter

A very progressive handicapper last season claiming three wins but all came over longer distances than this. The figures suggest that the progress has continued in 2017 – including an Ascot Listed win – but he’s unlikely to have the speed to take this.

3

Lightning Spear

Has built his reputation as a 1600m horse and that includes a Goodwood G2 win last season. A promising seasonal debut second to Ribchester in a G1 at Newbury, was followed by a flop behind that same star rival at Royal Ascot.

4

Ulysses

Gradually gained the upper hand when winning a G3 over this course and distance on his 2017 debut. Again launching a steady challenge he just failed to sustain it but was still only 1 1/4L behind Highland Reel in that hot Royal Ascot G1.

5

Barney Roy

Big with a powerful stride he has won three of his four starts, only beaten into second by Churchill in Newmarket’s 2000 Guineas, easily getting his revenge when a stylish G1 winner at Royal Ascot. Live chance if this extra distance suits.

6

Cliffs Of Moher

Came with a powerful run from the back to lead about 200m out in the Derby at Epsom last month only to be mowed down late on by the shock winner. This classy colt should be as effective over this shorter trip given a strong pace. Chance.

7

Eminent

This really talented colt was a G3 winner on just his second start. The race didn’t go his way when sixth in Newmarket’s 2000 Guineas and others also had a better luck in the Epsom Derby, still running a fine fourth. This shorter trip may be ideal.

8

Salouen

A tough colt who has only won two modest races but has competed well at a high level. Fancied at long odds for the Derby at Epsom but he had a bad trip there, and not much better one at Royal Ascot last time. This drop in distance may help.

9

Taj Mahal

Ran way above his odds when a close fourth in last month’s French Derby at Chantilly. However he was well beaten in the Irish version only last weekend, and it is very hard to imagine that he can bounce back with a G1 win so soon after.