12:50 Haydock Wed 4 December 2019

May have bumped into one on handicap debut when a 13-length second at Hereford (2m3f; soft). Others have stronger maiden hurdle form, but he is still unexposed and it would be a surprise were he not there or thereabouts.

Has shown more than enough promise on both starts since joining this yard to suggest he can be very competitive in handicaps. Open to plenty of improvement as he steps up in trip on debut in this sphere. On the shortlist.

Yet to record a victory in handicaps under this code. Was in the mix prior to falling three out at Exeter (2m7f; soft) when last seen. Runs off the same mark now, but it remains to be seen whether that fall has had an effect on him.

Ran nowhere near market expectations (sent off 11-4f) when a distant sixth on chase debut at Ayr (2m4f; heavy). Handicapper looks to have him where he wants him (still 9lb above last winning mark). Best watched for the time being.

Notched a couple of victories last season, but has found life slightly difficult since returning to the track in two starts this campaign. Never looked a real danger at Kelso (3m2f; heavy) last month. Drops back in trip. Others look more convincing.

Produced another lacklustre display when only seventh of 12 at Warwick (2m3f; soft) when reverting to this code. Only 1lb above last winning mark now, but will need to step up markedly to win this judged on his recent exploits.

Very lightly raced after just the four starts. Form of recent second at Hexham (2m4f; heavy) to Thomas Macdonagh has since been franked. Makes handicap debut and could take a sizeable step forward. Steps up to 2m6f for the first time.

Holds a modest strike rate of just 1-20 over hurdles. Beaten a long way in this grade on return to action at Kelso (2m5f; heavy). Dropped 4lb for that effort. Steps back up in trip, but can't be fancied when in current form.

Pulled-up for the third time in a row on seasonal return at Fontwell (3m1f; soft). Difficult to have any faith in him after dreadful recent efforts. Must show vastly more encouragement before he can be recommended again.