Sam Loyd (1841-1911) was known as the puzzle king, so it’s only right that his chess problems should make an occasional appearance here.

It’s White to play and force mate in 2 moves against any Black defence.

Yes, as usual in puzzles of this nature, you’d never get a position like this in a game, but many chess tutors now consider regular problem solving to be a very useful tool which will sharpen your calculation skills as well as increasing your chessboard creativity and imagination.

Have a go and see if you can find the solution.