In-form trainer Clive Cox has some heartening words for the mystery punter who stands to pocket over £1million if Red Merlin wins the Ebor at York next Wednesday.

The 7-1 second favourite, who is bidding to land a four-timer in the 1m 6f handicap, is the final leg of a £250 win treble with Ladbrokes which includes Goodwood winners Laa Rayb (25-1) and Genki (14-1) and Cox is confident of a big performance from his four-year-old gelding.

"Our team have been flying and Red Merlin could not be in better nick. He has rocketed 26lb up the ratings since the winning spree started at Chester in May and the form of his Old Newton Cup victory at Haydock last time is rock solid, with the second, who was five lengths clear of the rest, having since won at Ascot," said Cox.

"Obviously, the one doubt is the trip. He is stepping into unknown territory as he has never been beyond a mile and a half and, though a true-run race will help him settle, it could also stretch his stamina.

"However, he goes on any ground and granted a decent draw, he will hopefully be right there at the finish."

However, Cox also advised punters not to overlook his second-string Dansili Dancer, who is available at 33-1 with most bookmakers.

He said: "If the rain stays away he could prove the surprise packet.

"He has won an Old Newton Cup and a Borough Cup and you can forget his run at Haydock last time - he got marmalised in some scrimmaging. He is a veteran with few miles on the clock and he is over-priced."

Ebor (Totesport): 4 Changingoftheguard, 7 Red Merlin, 8 Age Of Aquarius, 12 Saptapadi, Warringah, Daraahem, 14 Yankee Doodle, Crackenthorp, Hendersyde, Deutschland, Hits Only Vic, 16 others.