Phil Nelson Capercaillie Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Scored twice over fences at Kelso (17f) in the autumn and arrives fit from a couple of respectable efforts over hurdles at Newcastle last month. Should be competitive back over the larger obstacles.

Rapid improver sent chasing last term, winning first 3 starts. Only the one real effort of note this season but he did show better signs on the back of a second wind op when fourth of 7 at the recent Ayr Scottish Grand National meeting. Claims if he can build on that for title-chasing yard.

Did the job well when opening chase account over 2½m here last summer. Ran up to his best when narrowly denied at Wetherby (2m) over Christmas and should figure if ready to roll after 4 months off.

Bit of an in-and-out profile but he did run well back from wind surgery when third at Kempton/Bangor last spring. Failed to stay 21.5f in Summer Plate at Market Rasen in July and not seen since.

Won 3 on the bounce last season. The current campaign hasn't been anywhere near as productive but he bounced back to form when second at Kelso (17f, good to soft) 53 days ago. Player if showing up in a similar mood.

Three-time maiden/novice hurdle winner for new yard in the first half of this season and continued the good work back chasing when scoring easily at Plumpton (2m, good) in November. Given a break since. Likely has more to offer over fences. Leading claims.

Scored over fences at Cartmel last summer but below par since, including back from a break at Carlisle last month. 17 lb out of the handicap here and can only watch.