Foot problem hinders Pearl's Guineas preparation

Pearl Of Love remains on target for the UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas despite receiving treatment for a foot problem.

The Mark Johnston-trained colt won the Group One Gran Criterium in Italy last year and is a 16-1 chance with William Hill for the first Classic of the season.

However, Pearl Of Love has been suffering with cracks in his feet but he remains on course for the big race at Newmarket on May 1.

“There are still five weeks to go but we have had a problem with Pearl Of Love, who has been getting cracks in his feet since the middle of last year,” Johnston told the Racing Post.

“We had an incident at the start of the week and he went to Newmarket to have the crack patched up. There had been no concern until this week and, of all of them, he had probably been the most forward.”

Johnston also has top filly Attraction in the UltimateBet 1000 Guineas and Russian Valour, Lucky Story and Mister Monet all also in contention for the 2000 Guineas.

The trainer added: “Attraction is well forward. She had her first fast gallop on Monday and that went very well. She was sound and OK afterwards.

“Russian Valour had some chips removed from his knees at the end of last year, so he is a little bit behind and can’t afford any hold-ups.

“Lucky Story is in great shape. He’s coming back from an injury and can’t afford time off. He’s had one little hiccup but there is still time to be ready. We’ve also got Mister Monet, who will definitely run in a trial.”