Murtagh takes charge on General

Paul Cole’s General Eliott will carry top-weight in Saturday’s totesport.com Cambridgeshire at Newmarket and will have the assistance of Johnny Murtagh in the saddle.

Cole also runs Moynahan, who will be ridden by Alan Munro.

Bushman has been declared by David Simcock, despite the possibility of quick ground. Darryll Holland is due to renew his partnership with the five-year-old.

David Barron’s John Smith’s Cup winner Sirvino goes in search of a sixth straight win with Phillip Makin back in the saddle after missing his big day through suspension.

Tony Martin runs Salute Him while Jim Goldie’s Nanton, runner-up 12 months ago to Tazeez, attempts the first leg of what would be an audacious bid for the Autumn Double.

John Gosden goes for a third successive win with Charm School, Handicap king Luca Cumani runs Swop with Kieren Fallon on board, and Michael Jarvis’ Almiqdaad looks to follow up a valuable win at Newbury.

David Lanigan’s Wannabe King is there along with Andrew Balding’s Brief Encounter.

“He’s been in great nick all year,” said Balding.

“He’s high enough in the handicap but I wouldn’t put it past him. He’s a handy horse and he seems to like Newmarket.

“The nature of the track with a bit more space is what he needs. On the round tracks he has been tightened up for space which hasn’t suited him as he seems to get intimidated and then stay on.

“A big galloping nine furlongs should be right up his street, the trip will be no problem, he’s won over a mile and whoever has ridden him always said he would stay further,” he told Racing UK.

A maximum field of 35 was declared with two reserves, Howdigo and King Olav.