Order of St George set for Autumn Stakes

Aidan O'Brien's grip on the top of the betting for next year's Derby could tighten after Order Of St George runs in today's Group Three opener at Newmarket.

The Autumn Stakes has a history of throwing up future classic winners, from its first victor, Nashwan in 1988, through to Trading Leather and Kingston Hill who scored in 2012 and last year.

Order Of St George broke his maiden by 8½ lengths at Leopardstown in June and a good performance here would propel him to the forefront of the 2015 Derby market in which four of his stable companions, including Ol’ Man River, dominate.

Most of flat racing’s big battalions are represented in the mile event, including Godolphin one of whose two runners include

Solario Stakes runner-up Future Empire.

“He’s a horse who I think is improving and I like him a lot,” said trainer Saeed bin Suroor. “He ran well last time and I’m hoping for a better result this time. Good ground should be fine.”