IT’S LOOKING GOOD FOR STOUTE’S EXPERT EYE

MANY felt the Newbury reappearance of EXPERT EYE (Newmarket, 3.35) was a huge disappointment but time may show it was a vital stepping stone to today’s Qipco 2,000 Guineas. Finishing second in last month’s Greenham Stakes might not have screamed future Classic winner to some, but given how much the colt did wrong in the race it looked a mighty performance. Historically, his trainer Sir Michael Stoute (right) barely sends out a winner in the early weeks of the season, preferring to leave his runners a little short in fitness, but a recent racecourse gallop at Newmarket reportedly pleased his trainer. So if Expert Eye’s natural enthusiasm can be harnessed, and the likelihood of a strong gallop today should assist in that respect, then Expert Eye could deliver a display reminiscent of last summer’s Vintage Stakes romp at Goodwood. Aidan O’Brien bids for an incredible ninth 2,000 Guineas win and Gustav Klimt and Saxon Warrior give him a strong hand, while Masar was hugely impressive in the Craven and could be a huge threat. It goes without saying it is a massive weekend for O’Brien with his runners today at Newmarket, Mendelssohn bidding for Kentucky Derby glory at Churchill Downs tonight and Happily and

I CAN FLY (Newmarket, 3.35) bidding to land the Qipco 1,000 Guineas tomorrow. Happily is the choice of Ryan Moore but I Can Fly could give her stablemate a fright given she has the benefit of a pipe opener at Leopardstown in atrocious ground.