O'Brien: Keep an eye on Nelson

Aidan O’Brien is looking forward to the Vodafone Derby with Horatio Nelson following his encouraging effort in the Stan James 2000 Guineas

The colt ran well for a long way in the Nwmarket Classic before fading to finish eighth of the 14 runners and was today reported on course for the blue riband on June 3.

“We were delighted with Horatio Nelson,” O’Brien said. “We knew he was a little bit behind in fitness and is the type of horse who will need racing to get him there.

“Mick (Kinane) was very happy with him. We said to Mick that he would need it and come on a good bit for it and Mick said he’s had a blow just going into the Dip and he was kind to him.

“He’s taken the race very well and we would really look forward to the Derby with him – there’s a lot to come from him.

“He’ll probably go straight to Epsom. I would imagine that’s what we are thinking at the moment.”

Horatio Nelson is currently 8-1 third favourite for the Derby with Ladbrokes behind Visindar and Sir Percy.