Aidan O’Brien’s bid for a sixth win in the Juddmonte International next Wednesday could be spearheaded by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner Highland Reel as a “strong possible”, accompanied, as at Ascot, by Sir Isaac Newton.

Speaking ahead of a race that is ranked as the best in Britain and third in the world by the Independent Federation of Horseracing Authorities, the Irish handler described the three time Group One winner Highland Reel as “very possible” for a trip to the Knavesmire.

A decision as to the participation of Epsom Derby second, US Army Ranger, in the £900,000 contest will be made after he has worked later this week.

Offering an update on another possible contender from the powerful Ballydoyle operation, The Gurkha, O’Brien indicated that whilst the horse was in “good shape” he would now be given “a little rest” after his heroics at Goodwood.

Talking about the feature of the opening day, O’Brien concluded, “The Juddmonte (International) is a great race, at a great track, a very fair track, and it is a very prestigious race”

Details of further plans for runners from County Tipperary, over the four days of a Festival that offers more than £4 million in prize money, will emerge as the horses go through their training routines.