Greek Dance could start favourite for Saturday's Vodafone Derby as current market leader Second Empire continued to ease yesterday. Coral made perhaps the most significant price change today as they pushed the Irish 2,000 Guineas third out to 11 to 4 (all in) from 9 to 4 (with a run).

"We are picking up some particularly negative vibes regarding both Second Empire and King Of Kings and ante-post punters are avoiding them like the proverbial plague,", reported Coral spokesman Simon Clare.

"We are still convinced that Greek Dance will be the professional's choice on Saturday and will start as favourite for the Derby."

Greek Dance, trained by Michael Stoute, last month produced an impressive performance in a York conditions race over a mile and a quarter, quickening clear to beat Capri six lengths.

Recent rain has encouraged backing for soft-ground contenders but betting activity yesterday was relatively quiet with punters doubtless holding fire in view of the unsettled weather and this morning's 48-hour final declaration stage.

Epsom remained on course yesterday to provide good ground, a forecast which was backed up after Oaks contender Tarascon worked on the track in the morning.

Clerk of the course Andrew Cooper said: "We had a dry night and had just one little shower this morning.

"The going is good. Tarascon had a spin and she made a nice print. Her rider said it was good ground, just on the slow side but nothing you would call good to soft."

Alec Stewart yesterday finally gave Mutamam the go ahead. Having mulled over options since his colt finished second when favourite for last month's Predominate Stakes at Goodwood, the trainer has now elected to send the three-year-old to Epsom. Michael Roberts will ride.

Owner Hamdan Al Maktoum looks set to be double-handed in the race as his 2,000 Guineas fifth Haami will also take his chance, provided the going is not soft.

Stewart said: "I accept his run in the Predominate was disappointing but he had had an interrupted preparation, which wasn't ideal."

Owner Brian Voak is delaying until today's final declaration stage a decision over his outsider Pegnitz, whom trainer Clive Brittain reckons has "a good each-way chance."

Pegnitz is quoted at 200 to 1 for the Derby by Hills and Ladbrokes.