Johnny Murtagh is keeping his fingers crossed Viscount Nelson can go one better than last year's runner-up Westphalia in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf at Santa Anita on Saturday.

Murtagh was in the plate when the latter was beaten just half a length by Donativum in the Grade Two prize 12 months ago and the jockey feels Champagne Stakes runner-up Viscount Nelson has solid claims.

"I like him and he ran well in a good race at Doncaster. He stayed on well and I think the two turns around here will suit him and he is very well drawn (stall two)," said Murtagh.

"I think he has a very good chance and he is a lot like Westphalia, but is probably a bit tougher."

Murtagh is also looking forward to getting the leg up on Alfred Nobel, who breaks from stall one in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile on the Pro-Ride surface.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien is doubly represented in the Grade One heat with Dewhurst hero Beethoven also lining up.

"I was very happy with the way he ran at Newmarket last time. I was following Richard Hills and was happy, but they were five lengths clear on the far side when I looked up," the jockey continued.

"He did disappoint the time before that but the ground was very heavy. He is a nice mover and has a turn of foot so I don't think he was in love with that heavy ground.

"Hopefully he and Beethoven will both run good races. They are both 20-1 and I don't think they deserve to be that price.

"They are both good horses in their own right back home and we think they can handle the surface.

"Aidan likes Alfred Nobel and Ryan (Moore) has ridden Beethoven, so I am happy with the one that I am riding."