Marchand D'Or open to Longchamps progress

Freddie Head is happy with Marchand D’Or as the top sprinter returns to European action in the Prix de Saint-Georges over five furlongs at Longchamp tomorrow.

The six-year-old grey completed a hat-trick of Group One victories last season - in the July Cup, Prix Maurice de Gheest and Prix de l’Abbaye.

However, he made an inauspicious start to the 2009 campaign, when last of 12 to Big City Man in the Dubai Golden Shaheen over six furlongs on dirt at Nad Al Sheba.

“He came back from Dubai in good form. I’m happy with his work, so all’s well,” said the French trainer.

Kevin Ryan is looking forward to running Benbaun following an encouraging first effort behind Inxile in the Woodlands Stakes, even though the eight-year-old finished unplaced.

“Benbaun is in great nick and ran well on his first run in Naas – the ground was very dead, which wouldn’t suit him,” said the North Yorkshire trainer.

“A sprint track can always ride a bit different to the round course, which can be a bit quicker.”

Inxile, trained by David Nicholls, and John Hammond’s Tayseer also figure in a seven-strong field.