2:05 Chester Tips

Useful sort who could be very well-handicapped for new connections. Will have to settle better as he sometimes races too keenly. Has the class and the right man on board to see it win here.

He's effectively 17lbs higher than when a close 2nd in this race last year but that's owing to a strong run of form which saw him finish 1-2-6-1 in four UK starts since. Has been running pretty well in Bahrain over the winter over what looks to be an inadequate trip and has been freshened up since. Stall 1 always positive here at Chester over this trip (5 of the last 7 came from stalls 1, 2 or 3 - three winners from stall 1) and his likely positive style and ground on the easy side of good both look to strengthen his chances.

Seven runs last year for the 4yo. He started the year in great form, then was below par on his final two starts on the AW, but is on a handy mark for his return from a five-month winter break. He could be a big player if he makes use of his low draw in stall 2. He went very close over this 7.5f C/D last year on his return and followed that with a big run at Royal Ascot, beaten just 1.5L in a 30-runner handicap. He is 8 lb lower now.

City House is an outsider here, but they are bringing him over from Ireland and he is on a winning mark, I think, after racing at a much higher one. Looks a very open affair, and this one could just take the money home.

Lir Speciale has never raced at Chester so there's obviously a question mark there. However, the horse is really in hot form at the moment and, if in the mood, must be considered at a price. Will get this trip and if there's cut in the ground so much the better.