July Trip The Worry For Channon

Mick Channon admits Australian recruit Mutawaajid is not certain to be suited by the trip in next Friday's Darley July Cup.

The four-year-old joined Channon last month after winning five of his six starts for Gai Waterhouse in his native country.

Mutawaajid suffered his only defeat when tackling a mile in the Randwick Guineas on his latest start in March.

And despite being a four-time sprint winner, Channon is not sure six furlongs on Newmarket's July course will be sufficient.

'Basically, I'm going on what everyone tells me and the videos I've seen,' the West Ilsley handler explained.

'He's got a lot of natural speed and I think Newmarket would certainly suit him because you can let him roll.

'I think probably it's a question of whether he needs seven furlongs. I think he's a six/seven-furlong horse and in a Group One there is no hiding place.'

Mutawaajid has yet to encounter conditions softer than good but Channon does not expect easy ground or the colt's lengthy lay-off to pose a problem.

'He has worked on soft ground and went well so I don't think the ground will be a factor,' Channon told At The Races.

'He's still got a bit of his winter coat but apart from that, he has done everything great since he came here.

'I'm very happy with his fitness. He's got a great stride ? he's a typical Aussie. He was half-fit when he came here and it won't be fitness that beats him.

'Hugh (Bowman, regular jockey) has ridden him in his work and he was very pleased.

'He knows the horse and they are very keen to have a go ? that is what the owner has sent him here for.'

Mutawaajid is as short as 14-1 with Paddy Power to make a successful British debut.

(C) PA Sport