Inkerman London Handicap Chase

Excuses over hurdles last time and decent efforts in defeat over fences prior to that. Should be in the mix.

Has developed a fine strike rate over fences, resuming progress when typically making all at Uttoxeter in September. Good second at Wincanton in November and shaped well when third at Cartmel 18 days ago after 7 months off. Entitled to come on for that.

Excuses over C&D last time but he remains tricky to win with. Others preferred.

May not be the force of old but his handicap mark fully reflects that and there was plenty of encouragement in this return from 11 months off (had breathing operation in interim) when third at Kelso 5 weeks ago. Of interest under Brian Hughes.

Ended a lengthy losing sequence despite being 6 lb out of the weights at Wetherby (19.4f, good to soft) on Boxing Day. Good second back at that venue next time but well below best next 2 starts. Unseated rider at the first at Cartmel since.

On a long losing run but only just failed at Tipperary last month. Creditable sixth at Killarney since but others better treated here.

Point winner who has taken well to fences, runner-up on 4 of his first 5 starts before off the mark in good style at Fontwell. Followed up off 9 lb higher at Cartmel 16 days ago and should go well again despite another 3 lb rise.