If press reports that the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor are demanding £100,000 per week are true, then these footballers must have some spare dosh on their hands. Perhaps some of it has gone on Justonefortheroad today in the 1.50pm at Redcar. This newcomer, forecast to start 16-1, is currently just 5-2 and hails from the Nicky Vaughan yard owned by Newcastle and England striker Michael Owen.
First-time-out horses don't appeal as betting mediums to me but that one is obviously very strongly fancied. The best bet of the day from the Guardian comes 20 minutes later at Stratford in the shape of Nayodabayo (2.10pm). This one will surely not have gone backwards for joining Nigel Twiston-Davies and the trainer has put a tongue-tie on the beast which can also bring about further improvement.
2.10pm Justonefortheroad one to follow
The vibes were certainly right about Justonefortheroad who travelled like much the best horse in the race at Redcar only to fade late on into third on his racecourse debut. That's a sure-fire winner of a maiden race and the yard obviously knew thay had a lively one there.
2.15pm Karashar calamity
Karashar, the favourite in the opener at Newton Abbot, is clear and travelling well when crumpling on landing at the last. That's the second time he's done that at the final flight in his two races so far. If you are of a forgiving nature he's another to be on next time. It's Nayodabayo, the Guardian nap next . . .
Nayodabayo is very gutsy. He finishes third but was under pressure for fully a circuit. That was a good run and he is one to note when granted a stiffer test than Stratford's tight circuit.
2.20pm Hail Hail Caesar!
You don't see many grey Aidan O'Brien-trained horses. I can't recall one and neither can my colleagues. However Hail Caesar, who looks a potentially useful two-year-old, is one and he has just won on his debut at Tipperary. Beat a useful sort in Miss Puss (sire Cool Cat) and will prove a lot better in time I think.
