Charlie Appleby is no stranger to Lincoln success, having landed the first big race of the Flat turf season twice in recent years.
He makes no secret of the fact he has mapped out his progressive four-year-old Modern News for the mile cavalry charge this year, and hopes to have boosted the gelding's chance by booking 7lb apprentice Harry Davies for the ride.
Modern News facing stiff competition
Modern News, priced at 7/2 is among the frontrunners with fellow Newmarket raider Mujtaba, who can be backed at 7/2.
The four-year-old warmed up for the Doncaster assignment with a Listed-race Meydan third last month.
Doncaster Saturday: £5 Free Bet.
(Only available to new and eligible UK and ROI customers. Applies to single bets only. Returns exclude Free Bet stake. 18+. Terms and Conditions apply).
Appleby, who won the Lincoln with Secret Brief (2016) and Auxerre (2019), said: "Modern News finished off his 2021 season on a high and has definitely come forward for his run at Meydan.
"It was always the plan to put him back into quarantine and head for this. He shipped back to Newmarket well and it has been mild for the last couple of weeks which is always a positive for horses returning from Dubai.
"We are confident the step up to a mile is going to suit and he looks a big player."
Related Horse Racing News
Horse Racing - Racing: Lincoln dominates as the Flat returns
Horse Racing - Guineas coming into firm focus
Horse Racing - Upping The Ante
Davies relishing oopportunity
Seventeen-year-old Davies, a rising star of the apprentice ranks who rode his first winner under rules in January, is understandably thrilled to have been given such a big-race opportunity.
"I went to sit on Modern News on Wednesday and he's in great order," Davies said. "Mr Appleby has done a great job with the horse.
"We only cantered, but he seems in really good order and he had a buck and a squeal on the way home which is always a good sign.
"It's a big thrill to have a ride in the Lincoln on such a high-profile horse on only my 33rd ride."
Discover more from the world's favourite online betting brand
Latest sports betting and odds
Watch horse racing live streaming
Head to the bet365 YouTube channel for exclusive racing content
