Mambo in the groove for Derby trial

Terry Mills expects Kid Mambo to make his presence felt in the totesport Derby Trial Stakes at Lingfield on Saturday.

Facing six rivals in the Group Three contest, the son of Lemon Drop Kid will bid to book his ticket for Epsom on June 2.

After rounding off his juvenile campaign with a second at this level at Ascot, Kid Mambo returned to action last month and chased home subsequent Cheshire Oaks winner Light Shift at Newbury.

“He’s got a good chance,” said Mills.

“It was interesting for the form to see Henry’s Cecil’s horse (Light Shift) do so well at Chester last time

– she’s a nice filly who should go well in the Oaks.

“He can go on soft and fast ground so the recent rain won’t be a problem whatsoever. That’s the beauty with him – he’s very versatile.

“It’s going to be a bit of a tactical race but he will be there. I’d be very disappointed if he’s not in the first three.”

Among his rivals is the Marcus Tregoning-trained Aqaleem, who will be making only his third start in Saturday’s feature.

While he is still a maiden, Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum’s colt finished one place in front of subsequent Racing Post Trophy winner Authorized last September.

“He’s in good form and will take his chance – I’ve not had any runners for a long time and it’s nice to be back,” said Tregoning, whose yard has been quiet recently following a bout of coughing.

“He’s a nice horse but is inexperienced and that’s why you can’t really compare him to Sir Percy because he had a ton of experience as a two-year-old.

“Being by Sinndar, the ground should not be a problem and he should get the trip. I’m not saying he’s a Derby horse yet but he’s a possibility. Saturday will tell us a great deal.”