Mattmu is set to make his first appearance in Ireland on Sunday in the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club Phoenix Sprint Stakes at the Curragh.

A Group Two-winning juvenile last year, Tim Easterby's colt has run fine races in defeat this season in the Duke of York Stakes, the Sandy Lane at Haydock and the Chipchase Stakes at Newcastle.

Mattmu also holds an entry in this weekend's Group One Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville, but Easterby expects conditions to be more favourable across the Irish Sea.

"He's in good form and we could be going to Ireland with him if the ground's wet. He likes a bit of juice in the ground," the North Yorkshire handler told At The Races.

"We're entered in Deauville as well, but the ground is quick out there and looked quick on Sunday.

"It's a very good weather forecast, so I should think we'll skip that one.

"At the moment the Irish race is the favourite. He's getting stronger all the time."

Mattmu is one of 17 horses still in contention for the Group Three contest, with Richard Fahey's Eastern Impact and David Lanigan's Interception also possible challengers for Britain.

Ireland's 'sprint king' Edward Lynam has a strong hand, with Anthem Alexander, Balmont Mast, Byzantium and Fort Del Oro all potential runners.

Other contenders include Maarek, Ainippe and Toscanini.