David Elsworth, who in Island Sands sold one 1999 Classic winner, could have another on his hands. And this one is not for sale.

His Salford Express is now a 14 to 1 chance for the Vodafone Derby after a Grosvenor Casinos Dante Stakes win at York yesterday which proved the horse durable and progressive. The doubt is whether his upward curve will take him to Derby standard by June 5th.

Richard Quinn, whose portfolio of Derby offers vindicates his decision to ride as a freelance this year, took his mount to the front from the off, a tactic he had earlier used successfully on former boss Paul Cole's Lady In Waiting in the listed Grosvenor Casinos Middleton Stakes.

Although keen early, Salford Express had found an even rhythm going into the final mile. While all arms around him were moving at the furlong pole, including those of Olivier Peslier on Slip Stream, Quinn's were still static.

Golden Snake threatened 100 yards out, but Salford Express had a length and a half in hand at the post, with three and a half to Slip Stream, the 2 to 1 favourite.

Elsworth, who trained Island Sands as a juvenile, had no similar offers for Salford Express, who shows little on the gallops at home.