Ran with some promise on first two outings and he was an impressive winner of his third start when winning by 6L at Redcar. Should improve again with another step up in trip here.
Won four of his starts as a juvenile but needs to be forgiven a very poor run at Musselburgh last time when seemingly amiss. Versatile with regards to ground and handicap mark should be workable.
Goodwood winner on third start towards the back end of last year and ran well on return at Newmarket last month when third of 10 last time. That's good form and likely hard to beat here.
Off the mark at the third attempt with a Wolverhampton success in December but well beaten on return at Windsor last time. Must improve to defy this handicap mark.
Improved on his juvenile form with an excellent second at Thirsk last month. If he can improve for that effort, he ought to be capable of winning a race like this off his handicap mark and gets a useful claimer taking off 3lb.
Unplaced on four turf starts but lost his maiden tag in good fashion at Wolverhampton towards the end of last year. May need a little more relief from the handicapper before he's of interest.
Still a maiden after six starts and all his best efforts have come on Fibresand at Southwell. Ran well last time at Yarmouth but effort peated out in the closing stages and softer ground not certain to suit.
Forecasts
Istanbul Sultan (11/10), I'm Improving (4/1), Rare Groove (4/1), Dawn Dancer (9/1), Indomeneo (16/1), Mr Reckless (22/1), Dr Richard Kimble (25/1)
ISTANBUL SULTAN ran well at the Craven Meeting when last seen and a reproduction of that effort should be enough to see him go close here. Rare Groove and I'm Improving are both of interest given their workable handicap marks.