I have had last year’s 4th, Iroko, firmly on my Grand National list, given that the J P McManus-owned runner has excellent stamina for this test. However, his lacklustre Cheltenham festival run has dampened my enthusiasm, and I prefer stablemate JAGWAR.

He is another McManus-owned participant, who is no stranger to success for us, having won over 2m4f, earlier in the season. Connections clearly eyed up a rise in trip bringing out further improvement, when sending the son of Cokoriko to the Ultima Handicap Chase at Cheltenham, earlier this month. He was an agonising 2nd, having made a few jumping errors, before staying on strongly, suggesting he is definitely worth a try at this marathon event.

That excellent run meant he was raised 5lb in the official ratings, which means he is 5lb ahead of the handicapper (Grand National weights were announced prior to the Cheltenham Festival). His dubious jumping is a concern, but I’m hopeful that the modified National fences are manageable. 

2025 winner, NICK ROCKETT, must be on everyone’s radar this season. Last year’s scorer was imperious that day, winning the extended 4m2f marathon by an impressive two-and-a-half lengths, from the reopposing top-weight I Am Maximus. 

Despite a 4lb higher mark, I’m confident of a bold showing, at a track his clear relishes. The Willie Mullins-trained stayer made an eye-catching reappearance run at Down Royal - keeping on nicely over 3m2f. Obviously a prep run for this huge target, I’m sure he will be spot on for Aintree.

GORGEOUS TOM is one who I’m giving a place chance at big each-way odds. The eight-year-old gelding has some smart chase runs to his name, especially on his rare voyages over staying trips. His 4th in a Grade Three Handicap Chase at Newbury in November was particularly encouraging, and I believe he can find improvement raised even further in distance. Trainer Henry De Bromhead is no stranger to Aintree Grand National glory, having trained the 2021 winner, Minella Times.