Cox plays down Harry Angel’s Ascot record

Clive Cox is confident Harry Angel can produce a good run in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes despite being winless in four trips to Ascot.

The Godolphin-owned four-year-old has an otherwise good record with two Group One successes, but he has been unable to taste victory at the Berkshire track to date, including in last year's Commonwealth Cup at the Royal meeting.

However, Cox claims there have been good reasons behind Harry Angel's failure to win at Ascot and he is expecting a strong display in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes on June 23.

Cox said: “I don't particularly lose any sleep that he has not got his head in front there, I think it's more coincidence rather than a serious problem.

“Adam (Kirby) gave him a nice introduction first time out and in his second to Blue Point he had a penalty and that race was pretty good form. He was just a bit keen in the Commonwealth Cup.

“When he ran in the Champions Sprint the ground was atrocious. I think his defeats have been a matter of circumstances, whether it be the ground or the way the race has panned out.”

He added: “I was pleased with his run in the Commonwealth Cup and I think it was a turning point in his life, as he took another step forward – not in the race, but after that.

“He carried on at the top of his game after that defeat in the Commonwealth Cup and proved that decisively in the July Cup.

“He has proved he has progressed with racing and I'd like to think he is more mature this year.”