Fahey facing Palace problem

Richard Fahey admits Tuesday's St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot is presenting him with some intriguing tactical questions.

Fahey is due to saddle Wootton Bassett in the mile heat which is also set to feature runaway 2000 Guineas winner Frankel, who represents newly-knighted trainer Henry Cecil.

Wootton Bassett usually races prominently and made all for his Group One success in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, but Frankel is also known for taking an early position and blew away his rivals from the front at Newmarket.

Fahey's charge tried to employ the same tactics when a slightly lacklustre fifth in the French 2000 Guineas on his reappearance and the Malton trainer believes they may have to sit on the heels of Frankel this time.

"The problem with that race is will Frankel bowl away? It will be an interesting race," he told Channel 4's Morning Line.

"If he bowls away and keeps on galloping the way he did at Newmarket, we will have to latch onto his tail or something.

"We always tried to take a lead with him (Wootton Bassett) as a two-year-old but he was just into his stride and away.

"The other day we felt that once he hit the front he would pull up but he just kept tanking, he was just too fresh.

"He doesn't have to (lead) but if Frankel goes that quick he will soon settle. It's not a worry and it might (help us).

"It will be interesting, you just don't know what will happen in the race."

While Wootton Bassett did not show his best in France, Fahey felt there were excuses but concedes Frankel will be tough to beat.

"He's in great order but he was a little bit disappointing in France. He had a bad draw, was just a bit fresh and did everything wrong," he added.

"This horse (Frankel) at Newmarket was awesome, so we will see on the day."