Fabricate one of the likely stars on show in Brigadier Gerard Stakes

Fabricate is reported in tip-top shape for his assignment in the Group 3 Matchbook Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown on Thursday, the highlight of the best evening meeting in the British calendar.

The Michael Bell-trained six-year-old, who made a bold bid over course and distance last month when beaten a short head by the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Crystal Ocean in the Gordon Richards Stakes, was one of 11 entries unveiled on Friday and installed as 4-1 second favourite by William Hill.

Bell said: “He’s a very likely runner. It has been his aim since he was chinned there last month. It looks the ideal race for him, although it appears Sir Michael may be unleashing another one [Poet’s Word] against us! Fabricate is in great form.”

Poet's Word is Hills' 11-10 market leader, with Almodovar, who was fourth in the Gordon Richards, a 5-1 chance.

Magic Circle, impressive winner of the Chester Cup last Friday, has been entered for the Group 3 Henry II Stakes, also sponsored by Matchbook.

The Ian Williams-trained six-year-old, who powered away from his rivals on the Roodee to slam Fun Mac by six lengths, is one of 13 entries.

Withhold, last seen when landing a major gamble in the Cesarewitch last October – in which Magic Circle could finish only 13th – is also engaged.

Brigadier Gerard Stakes

William Hill: 11-10 Poet's Word, 4 Fabricate, 5 Almodovar, 7 Laraaib, 8 Algometer, Spark Plug, Success Days, 11 bar

Henry II Stakes

William Hill: 3 Weekender, 4 Mount Moriah, 9-2 Sheikhzayedroad, 5 Magic Circle, 6 Withhold, 7 Red Verdon, Time To Study, 8 bar

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