Mandesha Team Expect Better In Arc

Alain de Royer-Dupre believes Mandesha should not be underestimated in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe next month.

The three-time Group One winner has not been quite at her best in four starts this season, although she began 2007 with a win and also lost little in chasing home Manduro in the Prix Foy last time.

However, de Royer-Dupre believes she is a better horse in the autumn and is looking forward to the Arc.

Reflecting on her latest run, he said: 'She did not have a strong race but the ground was not for her and she doesn't show her maximum on it.

'We want to be better for the big race, but at this time it's normal for her and there is nothing wrong.'

Despite having to settle for second on her last three runs, Mandesha's trainer believes she is perfectly genuine.

'I'm not going to put blinkers on her ? I don't want to try blinkers,' he told At The Races.

'I don't like them on the fillies and only exceptionally put them on some older horses.'

And while Mandesha has previously scored at the highest level on ground officially described as very soft, de Royer-Dupre would like to see quicker conditions in Paris come October 7.

'I would prefer a bit too firm than too soft,' he said.

'This year she has not been the same, but she will get better and better.'

Mandesha is currently available at a top-priced 14-1 for the Longchamp showpiece.

(C) PA Sport