Haggas: Muthmir is quick enough

William Haggas is confident Muthmir will have the speed to cope in the King George Stakes over five furlongs.

Muthmir was fifth in the Stewards’ Cup over six furlongs at Glorious Goodwood 12 months ago, but has impressed at the minimum distance this season.

The five-year-old was a Group 2 winner at Chantilly in May which means he has to give 4lbs to the rest of the King George field.

He was then third in the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot before only coming home ninth behind Muhaarar when stepped back up to six furlongs for the July Cup at Newmarket.

Haggas is slightly disappointed that Muthmir has to carry a penalty for the King George, but he is optimistic of a big run.

“He’s got enough speed, his problem is he’s just a little bit keen, but they’ll go fast,” Haggas told Racing UK. “He’s just a little bit away from the front-runners but I hope he’ll be all right.

“It’s just a pity that Group 2 winners have a 4lbs penalty, which is a shame as you wouldn’t think they would have such a high penalty in a similar race to one you’ve won.

“If you blink you’ll miss it and we’ll need luck, of course.”