The Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood is the next objective for Muker following his return to winning ways at York.

A narrow winner on his racecourse debut at Newcastle, the Mehmas colt came close to providing fledgling trainer Phillip Makin with a first Royal Ascot winner last month when a close-up third in the Windsor Castle Stakes.

With Windsor Castle scorer Tactical impressing in the Group Two July Stakes at Newmarket earlier in the day, Muker was a hot favourite to add to his tally on the Knavesmire on Thursday – and duly gave weight and a beating to his novice rivals to earn himself a return to Pattern level.

Makin said: “His Royal Ascot form looks solid, which was good to see. It doesn’t make him run any faster, but it backs up your opinion, which is nice.

“I was pleased with his performance (at York) – it was great to get another ‘one’ next to his name, and now we can move on.

“He didn’t overdo himself. That’s probably one of his biggest pluses – he’s a very laid-back and relaxed horse.

“That (Molecomb) is the plan at the moment, unless something else crops up. A quick five furlongs at Goodwood should suit him.”