Very useful in his prime for Willie Mullins; 0-7 for current stable since last autumn but was close to the pace (albeit under pressure) before falling at third-last fence in valuable Ascot chase (2m1f, good) last month and continues to slide down the weights.
Unable to justify favouritism but still ran well when seventh of 17 over the big Aintree fences last month (2m5f, good to soft); in calmer waters here and recent 2lb drop helps; no surprise if he features.
Began this year with two disappointing efforts but was seemingly back in good nick when close third in three-runner Sandown handicap (2m4f, good) last month and has good claims here if aided by first-time visor.
2-6 as a novice hurdler last season, gaining both wins over 2m on soft ground (also suited by good); unseated rider in early stages of seasonal/chase debut in September but ran quite well when fourth at Worcester (2m, good) in October and might have untapped potential over 2m4f.
Four-time chase winner (once over C&D); ran well for a long way on last month's seasonal debut and duly built on that performance when close second at Catterick (2m3f, good) 17 days later; remains on a good mark and ought to be in the thick of things again.
Came good over hurdles at Hereford (2m3f, good) in May and, following a break, was clear second on chasing debut at Sedgefield (2m5f, good) in September; well beaten on soft ground since but returns to forecast good ground here and should still have more to offer.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
