Racing:Saeed bin Suroor is in bullish mood as he prepares to run Kieren Fallon's mount Al Zir in Saturday's Investec Derby.
The imposing son of Medaglia D’Oro has always been held in high regard by Godolphin and finished third in the Racing Post Trophy behind St Nicholas Abbey on his final start last season.
He made no show in the 2000 Guineas, where he actually finished closer to the long-time Derby favourite, but his trainer expects the step up in trip and the booking of Epsom master Fallon to prove crucial.
“We’re happy to use Kieren, he’s a very good jockey. It’s great to use him and he rides Epsom very well. He’s won many races there,” said bin Suroor.
“He’s a great jockey and he’s in good form now. We’ve talked to him and he’s happy to ride for us.
“I’ve liked this horse since last year. He’s a good-looking animal and his work always showed some class. He won at Newmarket and Doncaster and was third in the Racing Post Trophy.
“I was disappointed with him in the Guineas, but he’s come back from the race very well.
“He has grown from last year and his last piece of work when Frankie (Dettori) rode him on the watered gallop was very good and I was really happy with him.
"A mile and a half, I think, will suit him.
“He didn’t show in the Guineas what he had been showing us at home, he was working really well and improving all the time.
“He’s the best he’s ever been and if he’s good enough, he’ll win. I’m so happy with the horse, he’s running over the right distance, is in good condition and good form and we are looking to see a good run from him.
"He's a big horse. I'm hope he gets into a nice position and I think he will handle the course," he told At The Races.