Crystal Ocean prime candidate for success

Alpha Centauri is a smart filly and would have been the selection but for her draw. In the past nine years, only four drawn in single figures have been placed; Yesterday though low numbers did well so perhaps things are not so cut and dried. MADELINE improved significantly from her debut to win a Goodwood race that is already turning into solid form. Armum clocked a decent time at Chester.

Finding the right improver is often the key to this and a prime candidate is CRYSTAL OCEAN. He recorded a personal best in the Dante and has wisely given him more time; he can now reap the reward. Five Derby also-rans turn out again. Best Solution fared best in eighth but none makes much appeal.

Some exciting horses but they will have to go to match CARAVAGGIO, who has a scintillating late burst that marks him out as special. Blue Point and Harry Angel are both strong improvers and can contest the places.

WINTER looks an outstanding miler and, on paper at least, has little to fear from these rivals. Precieuse won the French Guineas on soft ground but form lines through those behind her give her something to find. Fred Darling Stakes winner Dabyah may be best of the remainder.

A changed shape for the race this season – it comes down from two miles and goes up to a Group Two from Listed status.

STRADIVARIUS was beaten for speed at Chester but kept on strongly and this stiffer test can prove ideal.

Count Octave is another heading in the right direction. Aidan O’brien won this in its old guise five times since 2007 and Belgravia looks his best chance.

MAINSTREAM caught the eye at Newmarket on his return when experiencing all sorts of trouble and could be the answer. Wadigor is unbeaten in three starts and has a Group Two entry, suggesting big things are expected. Roger Varian also runs Appeared, who boasts a course-and-distance win so deserves respect.

Marlborough