Classic generation could hold sway over their elders

The three-year-olds have come in for a bit of stick after close finishes to the Derby, Irish Derby and Prix du Jockey-Club left them without an obvious middle-distance star, but it is too early to write off an entire generation and there are some glimmers of hope to be found in the Coral-Eclipse.

The Sandown race is the first opportunity for the Classic contingent to be tested against their elders – and it could be first blood to the youngsters, as the top three in the market are progressive three-year-olds.

Barney Roy, Cliffs Of Moher and Eminent come into the race with similar profiles, having each run four times and having improved their RPRs on every start.