Derby disappointment Military Order could earn himself a second stab at Classic glory in the St Leger if he can get his season back on track in the Caa Stellar Chester Stakes on Saturday.
Having won a Newbury novice event and the Lingfield Derby Trial on his first two starts as a three-year-old, the Frankel colt was fancied to emulate his full-brother Adayar by claiming victory at Epsom in early June, but was last of 14 runners.
Trainer Charlie Appleby has given his charge plenty of time to recover from those exertions and he will be a warm order to return to winning ways on the Roodee.
Speaking on the Godolphin website, Appleby said: “Military Order has enjoyed a nice break since Epsom and we have been very pleased with how he has done physically over the summer.
“We had the option of running here or in France and were looking for the better ground for him – good, good to soft at worst – so hopefully we get those conditions at Chester.
“We feel that stepping up to this trip will potentially suit but we are very much dipping our toe to see where we are going into the autumn.
“If he happens to win well, he could put himself into the St Leger picture, and we are looking forward to getting him back on track.”
Chief among Military Order’s rivals is Lone Eagle, who steps back in distance for in-form trainer Ralph Beckett after finishing down the field in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot and the Goodwood Cup this summer.
Irish hopes are carried by Karl Thornton’s talented dual-purpose performer Shanroe, who was last seen getting the better of a Willie Mullins-trained trio in a conditions race at the Galway Festival.
Beckett’s apparent second string Thanks Monica, Roger Varian’s Divine Jewel and Greysful Storm from Darryll Holland’s yard complete the line-up.
