The Clive Smith duo of Kauto Star and Master Minded top a high-class entry of 14 for the John Smith's Melling Chase at Aintree on Friday.

The Paul Nicholls-trained pair had contrasting experiences at Cheltenham, with Master Minded sluicing to victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase and Kauto Star losing his Gold Cup crown to Denman.

Kauto Star also has the option of running in the totesport Bowl over three miles and a furlong on Thursday.

Former Queen Mother champion Voy Por Ustedes and last year's Melling winner Monet's Garden also have entries, with the latter having the same options as Kauto Star.

Howard Johnson has given his highly-impressive Arkle winner Tidal Bay an entry - although he could also take up an assignment in the Mildmay Novices' Chase

Ryanair Chase winner Our Vic, Tamarinbleu, Newmill, Mister McGoldrick and Andreas are all possibles.