Linebacker will return to Rosehill for the Hobartville Stakes, where he claimed his biggest win to date.

Although Linebacker was defeated by Public Attention first-up, co-trainer John O’Shea believes he can turn the tables in the 1400m race.

Not only will Linebacker meet his conqueror at level weights, but O’Shea also expects the horse to be much fitter after just his third start in 10 months.

O’Shea also points out that Linebacker’s most significant victory came at Rosehill over the same distance in the Group 3 Baillieu Handicap last autumn.

“He has never won at 1200m, so we were cautious with him first-up,” O’Shea said. “He didn’t execute as well as we hoped, but he will improve.”

Linebacker was carrying two-and-a-half kilos more in his previous race and was beaten by just over a length. O’Shea is confident that the return to Rosehill’s 1400m will suit him.

First-up in the Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m), Linebacker led, which wasn’t O’Shea’s ideal setup. A minor gear change will be made for this race, with a cross-over noseband to help him settle better.

The Hobartville Stakes has drawn a strong field of 11, including Cox Plate third placegetter Broadsiding, who returns under Zac Lloyd with regular Sydney rider James McDonald committed to Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup (1800m).

Public Attention will face a tough challenge from the outside gate, while Linebacker has drawn barrier seven, just inside Broadsiding.