MIKE de Kock’s UAE Derby record is phenomenal – he has saddled the winner on no less than five occasions and Mickdaam should go close to making it six on Saturday.

Winner of the Listed Al Bastakiya on Super Saturday over the same course and distance, the three-year-old has improved throughout the year and de Kock hopes is still on an upward curve.

(Photo by Amanda Zetterholm).

He said: “Considering he had only won a maiden when he arrived and was rated in the 80s he has had a great season and has improved from day one. We knew the step up in trip for the Al Bastakiya would suit him and he did it well. It would be nice to think there is more improvement to come and, in reality, he needs to raise his game again as some of his rivals have been contesting good Group races throughout their careers.”