FOXY JACKS ran on strongly behind Delta Work at Punchestown in November, indicating he could benefit from this rise in distance. He’s also better off at the weights with the hot favourite, too. There is also the potential of improvement, racing over this unique track for the first time.

Dual course and distance scorer – Diesel D’Allier – boasts a good record
Over these fences and is handicapped to go close if near his best first-time-out. He can run into a place.

There is a sense that Edwardstone is an underrated type, despite his victory in the G1 Arkle Novice Chase victory here last season. There is every chance he can atone for an early departure at Kempton last time, with a strong gallop expected to suit here.

KARL PHILIPPE is a progressive chaser, with three wins from seven attempts. The Fergal O’Brien-trained individual ran on strongly at Wetherby after a bad jumping error, offering the potential of further progress at this stiff track.

PHOENIX WAY could improve after a satisfactory fourth after an absence. He landed a valuable Ascot handicap chase under similar circumstances last term and appears on a fair mark, to sneak into the frame at the business end.

HALKA DU TABERT created a strong impression on hurdle debut, pulverising her field by 11 lengths at Naas. She can remain unbeaten over obstacles, despite the presence of a talented Willie Mullins runner, who is likely to go off favourite.

DEMACHINE is a solid each-way prospect in the prestigious Sky Bet Handicap Chase at Doncaster this afternoon. He ran better than his finishing position suggests at Cheltenham at the start of the month, and is expected to come on for that here, with the rise in trip another big plus. For those chasing a bigger price, Cooper’s Cross arrived in top form and isn’t discounted with first-time cheekpieces applied.