JOE Murphy appears to have a strong chance in Sunday’s Group 2 Romanised Minstrel Stakes (3.15) at the Curragh, as Lord Massusus bids to follow-up on last month’s listed success at the same track.

“We’re expecting a big run from him,” Murphy said ahead of the seven-furlong contest.

“We think he’s a nice horse and he’s proven that by winning six races. He’s coming back a furlong, which might be a little bit of a worry, but we think that if there’s a good pace in it, it’ll suit him. We’re looking forward to it and hopefully will enjoy it.”

Lord Massusus’ last attempt over the trip saw the John Bourke-owned gelding finish second to Matilda Picotte in the Group 2 Challenge Stakes at Newmarket, while his Group 3 win came over a mile in the Desmond Stakes.

He further demonstrated his versatility with a fine second to White Birch in the Group 2 Mooresbridge Stakes, with the winner going on to defeat Auguste Rodin in the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup.

Bought back for €3,000 as a yearling, the 108-rated gelding is the second highest-rated in the field, with top honours going to the well-travelled dual Group 2 winner I Am Superman.

His wins have come on ground ranging from good to soft, but Murphy is praying for rain when it comes to White Clover. The three-year-old is a leading fancy in Saturday’s La Celia Wines Irish EBF Fillies Maiden (5.25) over seven furlongs, following two promising efforts.

“She’s a nice filly but would love more ease in the ground,” the trainer admitted.

“I was up at the Curragh on Friday, and there’s a very strong drying wind, but we’re supposed to get rain in the morning and rain tonight. Anything that’s less than good will suit her better.”

The form of her Leopardstown third has worked out well, with the runner-up, Apricot Ice, having won her next two starts. Gary Carroll retains the partnership at the Curragh, where she is due to face 13 rivals.