Silvestre De Sousa has a 42.1% strike rate when riding for Martyn Meade, with the pair returning a healthy +£10.66 LSP to a £1 stake since 2012. Lone Eagle won the Cocked Hat Stakes at this meeting 12-months ago before going on to finish 2nd in the Irish Derby behind Hurricane Lane. He was far too keen when last seen in the King George VI in July and is best forgiven that effort as he was subsequently found to be injured after the race. Although he may not be fully tuned up for his comeback, he holds a clear chance based on the level of form that he achieved as a 3-year-old and is 11lbs clear on the official ratings.
We can be certain that he will handle the track as he has won here in the past and with an entry having been made for him in the Hardwicke at Royal Ascot next month, his connections clearly have sufficient confidence that enough of his ability remains in place after his injury. He may not need to run to his official rating to win this contest against 5 rivals who are best described as exposed at this level.
