Sir Percy Trainer Marcus Tregoning (l) is presented with his trophy

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The Marcus Tregoning trained Cavaleiro is one of just nine runners set to contest the 233rd running of the Derby at Epsom on Saturday, the smallest field for over a century.

Not since 1907 has the world’s most important race attracted such a small field, where this year the betting is headed by the red hot favourite Camelot who was shortened into 4-7 on Thursday when the final field for the 2012 Investec Derby was confirmed.

The desire to avoid a clash with Camelot may well be a reason for the low turnout. But Tregoning, who won the Derby in 2006 with Sir Percy, is eager to take on the Aidan O’Brien trained favourite who continued his unbeaten run when landing the QIPCO 2000 Guineas in May.

“The piece of work Cavaleiro did at Lingfield on Saturday was the best bit of work he has done all year and we were very happy with that,” said Tregoning after his charge had worked over six and a half furlongs under big race jockey Hayley Turner.

“I really do like him - he will stay very well and hopefully he will be able to go the pace. We can do what we want with him as he is a very straightforward ride and I imagine we will be tracking the pace - they don’t normally hang around in the Investec Derby.

“It’s extraordinary having such a small field, possibly because people are scared of taking on Camelot, but it’s a strange year.

“It’s a huge opportunity for Hayley Turner and for everyone. I think she is very good for racing and she will give Cavaleiro a very good ride.”