Today's Horse Racing Tips: Just back Hubert for Plate success at Newcastle

Expect a big run from Muir's Hubert

15:35 Newcastle - Back Just Hubert Win and Place @ BSP

Seconds hit again yesterday, although I can't really grumble with Thaqaffa getting slammed by half the track. The 1.132/15 in-running of Wedding Date however was a tough one.

I usually end up with the Betfair Northumberland Plate when on duty, which is a good thing as it's a proper Saturday race and an Extra Place Special race too on the Sportsbook. I like a couple in Smart Champion and Just Hubert, and preference is for the latter who really impressed me last season.

He improved for the step up to 2m in what was a very productive 2019 campaign. He landed the Edinburgh Cup from 86 with a strong staying performance, but I really enjoyed his pick up effort off a strong pace over 2m at Sandown. The finish and the tempo of the race really suited him, so I envisage Newcastle could play to his strengths.

Indeed, from last season, he boasts an excellent piece of form when finishing fifth in the Melrose.

He'll be a lot fitter following a comeback run at Haydock. He was too keen in that from a poor position, although it was a pretty strong race.

With a good draw and a double figure price at 14/1 on the Sportsbook initially and 24.023/1 on the Exchange, he should also be considered in the Place market. He has been mentioned as a possible for the Melbourne Cup by his trainer William Muir.

Dream of a winner with Knight's Author

16:10 Newcastle - Back Author's Dream @ 3.55

Trainer William Knight must be loving Newmarket since his switch to headquarters for the season, as he is operating at a near 30% strike-rate with his runners at the moment - and that included a Royal Ascot winner.

He sends one for the Vase Consolation, and in truth, this shouldn't take an awful lot of winning.

Author's Dream is the one, and whilst he is towards the head of the market at 3.55, he looks well-in on his old form and is simply a better horse on the all-weather.

Last time he won at Sandown over 1m6f with a strong staying performance from a wide move, and whilst he has gone up 5lb, his mark of 81 isn't prohibitive.

A return to a testing 2m will suit as he is from a family of strong stayers.