O’Brien will need to produce some Merlin-style magic if Abbey is to succeed at Epsom

IF Aidan O’Brien can get St Nicholas Abbey to win the Epsom Derby on June 4 then he can surely be mentioned in the same breath as Merlin - and we all know what his profession was.

St Nicholas Abbey’s performance in last Saturday’s 2000 Guineas at Newmarket was shocking and, assuming he now travels straight to Epsom, it will take a massive leap of faith for anyone who is considering backing him.

Ladbrokes, who are supposed to be tuned into Ballydoyle, at least better than most, were shortest about him for the 2000 Guineas and are now one of the biggest for the Derby.