Aidan O'Brien has called on the services of Ryan Moore for the feature race at Dundalk on Wednesday as his son Joseph O'Brien misses his second successive Flat meeting in Ireland.

It was thought Joseph, who had a ride over hurdles at Limerick on Sunday instead of opening the turf season at the Curragh and was described as a “little heavy” by his father, would return to the fold at the Co Louth venue.

However, he will not be in action and it is Moore who will be aboard War Envoy for the Ballydoyle yard in the Patton Stakes.

Moore rode the colt in his last three starts last season – the Champagne Stakes, the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere and the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf.

O’Brien’s younger son Donnacha will be on Song Of Love, the stable’s other runner in the Listed contest.

Michael O’Callaghan is expecting a bold display from Rapid Applause, who made a winning debut last April and was in the first four in Group company in his three subsequent races.

“I’m delighted with the way the horse has wintered. He’s a good bit heavier this year. He’s a lot stronger and lot more mature,” said the Curragh handler.

“I think he has improved over the winter quite significantly and I couldn’t be happier with him the way he’s gone and the way he’s thrived.

“He’s carrying plenty of condition and will come on a lot for the race, but I expect him to give a really good account of himself.

“He was crying out for seven furlongs last year. Seven around Dundalk is similar to six up the Curragh.”

Shane Donohoe believes Sparklingsovereign may not be seen at her best when she returns to the scene of her course and distance success on her debut in October.

“She’s in the middle of changing her coat so it’s not ideal running a filly, but I’m sure whatever she does tomorrow she will improve for the run,” said the Cavan trainer.

“She’s a decent filly, but I’m not sure everything is in her favour tomorrow. She’s a spring filly and will get better as the season goes on.”