Sir Michael Stoutes Autocratic set for a big run in Saturdays Betfred Rose Of Lancaster Stakes at Haydock

AUTOCRATIC is in top form ahead of Saturday's Betfred Rose of Lancaster Stakes at Haydock.

Sir Michael Stoute's four-year-old put in a career best at Sandown in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes when last seen and has the Juddmonte International Stakes on his agenda.

"He's in very good order and we really need to run him if we're going to think about running in races like the Juddmonte International."

Cheveley Park also run the Richard Hannon-trained Larchmont Lad.

"Larchmont Lad is in good form," said Richardson.

"Ryan Moore rode him at Newmarket last time and told us we should try him over a bit further on slightly softer ground, so we're taking his advice."

Francis Of Assisi makes his first start since winning the Queen Elizabeth Stakes in Australia last year. He is currently at the head of the betting for this year's Melbourne Cup.

"He's in good shape. He obviously had the spring off after his victories in Melbourne last year and he's currently joint-favourite for the Melbourne Cup," said Appleby.

"He'll be making his way back down there. They start quarantine in the middle of September and we'll get a run into him before he goes on the plane - he's in great nick.

"I couldn't be any happier with him and I'm looking forward to seeing him out and then he'll be on his travels."

The one unbeaten runner in the Group 3 contest is Laraaib, who beat Royal Ascot winner Atty Persse at Haydock in May and has since won at Ascot.

"I was a bit worried at Ascot as they didn't go very quick and I thought it was going to turn into a bit of a sprint," said trainer Owen Burrows.

"Dane (O'Neill) thought that as well, but there was the false rail and he was always going to get room up the straight when they turned in.

"It took him 50 yards to hit top gear, but I was impressed with him. He is still big and raw, but we can't fault what he has done."