5:00 Epsom Downs Tips

Won nicely on debut as a 2-year-old at Ayr and equaled that form on the next start there too on softish ground, so should handle conditions today. Hasn't set the world alight since, but the yard is in much better form now and they have gelded this son of New Bay. It's that pedigree that catches my eye, as the sire was responsible for last year's winner of this race, Persica, and the dam won over 1m2f and 1m3.5f, so the step up in trip looks sure to suit. Looks the one to beat for me.

Unexposed sort who has put in two good runs in defeat this term. Should have more to give and a potential front runner.

Distance winner who's turned out again quickly after running only 7 days ago when winning a Class 4 over 1m 2f 70yds at Chester under today's jockey. Rating goes up to 84 from 79 but steps up to a Class 2, so carries less weight today.

Meblesh looks the one to be on here. After a promising debut over an inadequate 7f at Doncaster, he was too keen 12 days later at Newbury after being stuck wide with no cover. He looked a progressive colt back there 22 days ago & I know he's well thoughtof by connections.

Chartwell Jock represents value with Oisin Murphy booked. From the Balding yard, he’s a sprinter with improving form and solid figures. The market has respected him, and he looks likely to get a nice trip. With a strong pace expected, his turn-of-foot will be a serious asset in the finish.

Won really well at Goodwood last time out, and this track should suit in the follow-up attempt. Also, the six-pound penalty for that win might not stop this one from running well.

Stall one for Charlie Johnson-trained Cayman Dancer. This can play to this front runner's strengths, with Richard Kingscote in the saddle, who is like Joe Fanning, who is at Musselburgh, the reason for not being in the saddle here. Richard can get the fractions right from the front, and connections have Cayman Dancer racing in his first handicap off a mark of 79.

Love Talk looks interesting at a big price. He has top weight but that is not a disadvantage at Epsom and he seems to show his best form in soft conditions and with the weather forecast for heavy rain in the south it could be very soft by tomorrow.

This race is extremely competitive, and Patrol has been competitive except for his last run, which was way below his best. He has won three of his last five, and discounting his last run, he looks competitive enough to win.