Market Cross Jewellers Handicap (GBBPlus Race)

Won in Class 6 on soft and good to soft last year but withdrawn from good to soft on Thursday; first six wins were 1m6f, including at Newmarket this August, and he travelled much the best at Ripon (2m) one week ago before scraping home in front; up 3lb but return to 1m6f is clearly no disincentive and two of his wins last year were separated by only five days; player.

Kicked off in three novice events, easily best run when 50-1 third at Kempton (1m3f, Polytrack) in July on third occasion; wore cheekpieces that day and again when beaten 15l on handicap debut at Newcastle (1m4f, Tapeta; 12-1) next time; new trip and unexposed, but questions to answer.

Plenty of ability but no win after six starts; hung badly left on reappearance in April and he was eased right down in July next time; gelded before 1m4f AW handicap at Lingfield one month ago, in which he nearly redeemed himself but hanging left again did not help; dam won at up to 1m6f and he may yet come good, but there are clearly risks.

Won at Newmarket (1m4f, good to firm) in June with a first-time visor (replacing usual blinkers) but he was below form next time and tailed-off last of three on latest, both also at Newmarket; 1m6f is plausible but it's the gelding operation which seemingly needs to prompt a turnaround.

Thirsk (1m6f) last June was his only win in the last three years; has a career-low mark and some minor honours this term but others bring more pressing claims.