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Japan one of seven for O’Brien among 18 Vase possibles

Classic clues will be on offer at Chester on Wednesday after 18 entries were received for the MBNA Chester Vase Stakes.

Aidan O’Brien, who is a big fan of sending his Derby and Oaks prospects to the Roodee, has seven possibles at the six-day stage.

They include Japan, one of the ante-post favourites for the Investec Derby next month having won the Beresford Stakes last season.

Anthony Van Dyck, placed in the National Stakes and the Dewhurst at two, Norway – who won the Zetland Stakes – Royal Lodge victor Mohawk and the once-raced Sir Dragonet are in the mix too.

Martyn Meade’s Technician, slightly unfortunate behind Bangkok at Sandown last week, and Royal Ascot winner Arthur Kitt – who stumbled on leaving the stalls on his return at Epsom – could also turn up.

Mark Johnston has entered Living Legend, Themaxwecan and West End Charmer.

Charlie Fellowes’ King Ottokar, impressive at Newbury on his return when beating Dashing Willoughby, could meet Andrew Balding’s colt once again.

There are also 18 entries in the Arkle Finance Cheshire Oaks – with O’Brien responsible for four, including Happen who chased home Lady Kaya in a trial for the Irish 1,000 Guineas.

Ralph Beckett’s Manuela De Vega stands out on juvenile form – having won both her starts, including in Listed company.

John Gosden’s Fanny Logan could step up in class after winning a Wetherby maiden and may be joined by the Frankel filly Mehdaayih – while Balding has entered Grace And Danger, impressive on her only outing at two, and Sneaky Peak.