Leading trainer Annabel Neasham says she almost didn’t recognise star Mo’unga (NZ) (Savabeel) given how much he has matured in the spelling paddock.

The dual Group One winner returned to her New South Wales stable this week and she couldn’t be happier with the rising five-year-old.

“He just arrived back in the stable. You nearly wouldn’t recognise him,” Neasham said.

“He has improved physically an enormous amount. He’s really beefed up.

“He is coming into his five-year-old season now. Very excited about him.”

Neasham said Mo’unga will likely return in the Gr.1 Winx Stakes (1400m) with plenty of options available in the spring.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up a bit sharper this prep. He looks more like a sprinter-miler. He looks very muscly, very bulky,” Neasham said.