John Thomas McNamara Handicap Hurdle

0-19 under rules; fairly modest form last season; others preferred.

Breakthrough win came at Wexford in April over this trip (good to yielding) off 6lb lower; never counted over 3m1f at Kilbeggan a fortnight later; drop back to this trip should suit; player.

Five-time winner is best watched on return from such a long absence unless market speaks positively.

Best run came on second handicap start at Punchestown (good to yielding) last time when upped to 3m for the first time and beaten a short head off 3lb lower; the abandonment of the first-time tongue tie worn that day and the drop back in trip are both question marks now but good chance with a repeat of latest run.

Attracted heavy market support at Cork last time (2m3f, good) but could only manage fifth; punters likely attracted by now 19lb lower hurdles mark, but dual chase winner is yet to match that form in this sphere; may want softer ground than this.