It is at the Weatherbys Bank Blue Riband Trial Conditions Stakes at Epsom on Wednesday, where Popmurphy will get a chance to put his credentials on line. After a winning a debut at Windsor, Popmurphy made such a great impression on trainer Karl Burke that he decided to give the son of Montjeu a chance to show his Classic credentials.

Besides, Popmurphy also has an entry scheduled at the bet365 Classic Trial at Sandown on Sunday, but Burke has decided to take him to the home of the Derby. The reason for this is that the race in Epsom is the easier race of the two. Burke also states that Popmurphy is an exciting horse that will definitely come on mentally and physically for the race.

In the meantime, Burke’s other horse; Lord Shanakill had a heavy workout this weekend, in preparation for the Stan James 2000 Guineas. Lord Shanakill had just recovered from a high temperature on Friday morning, indicating that he would be withdrawn from Saturday’s Greenham Stakes.

Burke states that his temperature was normal on Friday evening and Saturday morning; and was thus given some light exercise in the form of a steady canter. Burke said that they would wait a few more days before deciding whether or not they were out of the woods with him, so time will be the key factor here.