Cross can hit target for Luca

Military Cross can land another major handicap for Luca Cumani in Friday's £150,000 Totesport Mile at Glorious Goodwood (3.30).

The Italian-born trainer has a great record at the meeting, sending out five winners from 19 runners in big handicaps in the past nine years.

Military Cross was fancied for last year's Royal Hunt Cup, but subsequent joint problems resulted in him being fitted with a metal implant in his leg which has limited his appearances.

But the five-year-old made a successful-return to action at Lingfield last November before landing a quality handicap at Salisbury.

That was a big step up in form as he beat Orchard Supreme by two lengths on the all-weather, yet on 17lb worse terms accounted for the same horse by three lengths at the Wiltshire track.

Although now rated 101, Military Cross still looks to be a cut above his 19 rivals here.

Lang Shining has lost his way a little-but if he can reproduce early season form could run a big race.

Though three-year-olds' struggle in this contest, Masaalek must also be given respect on his third to Lovelace in a competitive handicap at Sandown earlier this month.

Military Cross has to overcome an unfavourable low draw but is one of the few experienced runners who appears open to further improvement and, knowing the meticulous way Cumani prepares for these races, he can oblige for punters.