Oxx confident Stars will line up in Eclipse

JOHN OXX has allayed fears that heavy rain on Thursday night may prevent the participation of Sea The Stars in Saturday's Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

John Oxx: pretty happy with going

  PICTURE: Martin Lynch  

Between 10-15mm of rain fell on the Esher track, forcing clerk of the course Andrew Cooper to change the going to good, but Oxx is confident of Sea The Stars lining up - as long as conditions stay relatively the same.

Speaking on At The Races on Friday, Oxx said: "It's pretty good ground all around and I hear it's similar to Epsom on Derby day.

"We're not anticipating any problems as long as there is no more significant rain. We're pretty happy with what we're hearing."

Oxx also revealed the Stanjames.com 2,000 Guineas and Investec Derby winner was in fine form and anticipated further improvement from him.

"Epsom took nothing out of him," Oxx said. "He's worked with his usual enthusiasm and you expect three-year-olds to improve throughout the season."

Regarding the Eclipse trip and opposition, Oxx added: "The way he ran in the Guineas over a mile would indicate ten furlongs would be no problem. It's a good race and he'll need to be at his best.

"We've high hopes for him, and of course we'd be disappointed if he didn't win. He's got a favourite's chance."