Investec Derby 2018: Charlie Appleby confident Masar will stay the trip at Epsom racecourse
CHARLIE APPLEBY is confident Masar can step up in trip and have another crack at Saxon Warrior in the Investec Derby.
The Godolphin colt finished third to the current Epsom favourite in the QIPCO 2000 Guineas.
Connections are leaning towards an outing in the Derby, rather than going for the Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas next weekend.
Appleby believes that the three-year-old should have no problem with the step up in trip, or with the tricky track.
He said: "Masar has come out of the Guineas well and as we stand we are leaning towards the Derby.
"On pedigree he should get the trip. He has got a good head for it and you can switch him off in a race, but we've all got the favourite (Saxon Warrior) to beat and we've all got to find some improvement.
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"I would not have thought he would have a problem with the track, as although they are not the same he's handled the undulations at Newmarket well twice."
Masar is currently a 16-1 shot for the Derby, with Saxon Warrior the 8-11 favourite.
Appleby also revealed plans for Key Victory, who won a decent Listed event at Newmarket on his last start.
The colt has a few options and connections are keen to take their time in deciding where he will head next.
Appleby added: "I'm not sure where he will go. He is doing well and we have got the French Derby or Royal Ascot to consider."