After a second workout aboard Melbourne Cup contender Meydaan at Werribee this week, jockey James McDonald says the four-year-old is in top shape ahead of Tuesday’s 3200-metre feature.

While his short-term focus is on guiding favourite Autumn Glow in the Golden Eagle (1500m) at Randwick, McDonald said Meydaan continues to impress.

“I can’t wait,” McDonald said. “He’s done really, really well.”

Meydaan finished ninth in the Caulfield Cup (2400m) but was only five lengths from the winner, $6 Melbourne Cup favourite Half Yours.

“He has come through Caulfield really well,” McDonald said. “Getting back to the big stretches of Flemington, I think you’ll see a really good version of him.”

Rated a $15 chance, Meydaan will carry 54.5kg. McDonald believes his blend of speed and stamina makes him ideal for the Cup.

“He’s a good horse, this,” McDonald said.