Connections of Simenon are "committed" in their pursuit of the Melbourne Cup - even though the talented stayer is not yet guaranteed a place in the final line-up.

The six-year-old gelding, runner-up in both the Ascot Gold Cup and the Lonsdale Cup at York this season, has been allotted 53.5kg for the world's richest handicap at Flemington on November 5.

Trainer Willie Mullins accepts Simonen's participation could be a closely run thing.

He told the Telegraph: "We are committed to go, even though we are not guaranteed to get a run.

"We know it's probably a 50-50 chance, but the owners are keen, and the horse has been in quarantine in Newmarket.

"He's settled in great and he's been eating and drinking OK."

Simonen is likely to have a run before the Melbourne Cup. A victory could see him incur a penalty which may help him make the cut.

Mullins said: "We are looking at several options, but I would prefer it if the race was not too close to the Cup."