Oddschecker Cheltenham Free Bets Handicap Hurdle

Out-and-out stayer who finished runner-up on reappearance and was a tad fortunate to go one better at Haydock in December. 78-day break suggests that race may have left its mark and suspicion remains that he's better on testing ground.

Course bumper winner/useful novice who hasn't kicked on as expected, bled when pulled up on chase debut/reappearance in December. On a workable mark back in a handicap hurdle but remains with a bit to prove.

Useful but inconsistent chaser for Gordon Elliott. Off nearly 5 months prior to this stable debut and it's been a while since he's shown any worthwhile form over hurdles.

Useful at best but has gone backwards following a solid enough start to this season, tying up badly (having helped force the pace) in very testing conditions at Newbury last month. This looks less competitive, though.

Consistent sort who finished third for the fourth start in a row in mares' handicap at Kempton last month. Should be competitive again, if in same form following a break.

Beat now useful Gentleman Toboot on bumper debut but yet to fulfil his potential over hurdles, a beaten favourite following 10 weeks off at Southwell last month. Former point winner is stoutly-bred, however, and could come into his own now handicapping over markedly longer trip.

Following a laboured start to the season, bounced right back to form in first-time cheekpieces when third in a competitive handicap at Ascot last time. Still off his last winning mark and should go close provided headgear has the same impact.