Agent set for French mission

EVE JOHNSON HOUGHTON is confident about Accidental Agent’s prospects when he tackles super filly Alpha Centuari in Sunday’s Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.

Accidental Agent gave Johnson Houghton her first Royal Ascot winner and a first Group One success when springing a 33-1 surprise after landing the Queen Anne Stakes in June. The form of that contest was enhanced when Lightning Spear, the third home, won last week’s Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.

“He’s in really good form we are very pleased with him,” said Johnson Houghton. “Looking back on the Sussex Stakes, you cannot say he would have won, but it’s solid Group One form.

“We go to France with great confidence. Obviously, the filly [Alpha Centuari] is very good, but you know, she’s only taken on three-year-olds of her own sex.

“He will love the straight mile at Deauville.” Alpaha Centauri tops the Betway betting at 6-4 with Accidental Agent 9-1.