German import Protectionist had his final piece of fast work on Thursday morning prior to the Melbourne Cup.

Protectionist galloped at Werribee this morning which will be his final hit-out prior to the Group 1 Melbourne Cup at Flemington on Tuesday.

The Andreas Wohler-trained stayer is currently equal second favourite for the 3200m feature alongside Lucia Valentina at $7.00 with TAB Sportsbet Fixed Odds.

The son of Monsun profiles well heading into the event, backing up a breakout preparation over the European summer with a closing fourth in the Herbert Power Stakes at his Australian debut.

“He finished the race very well,” Wohler said.

“He ran a good race. He hit a flat spot at the five furlong marker but he finished the race off well.

“He couldn’t be better at this stage.”

Cox Plate winning rider Ryan Moore is engaged who has finished fifth in his prior two tilts at Melbourne Cup success aboard Mount Athos and Dandino.

“You need a good jockey and we are lucky to have Ryan (Moore) on board,” Wohler told Sky Sports Radio.

“He is a true professional.”

“He has studied all his form, watched all his videos and all videos from all the other runners.”