KIRCHNER (2) is a promising colt yet to miss the frame in two starts, including a win. Has not been produced since he finished third over 1600m at Pau All Weather on November 29. Has great scope for improvement so a bold showing is expected. BULNES (1) is back from a spell. Closed last prep in sparkling form with four consecutive wins, the latest over 1600m at La Zarzuela on November 3. Likely to push forward and race on the pace. Expected to be in the finish. STARNBERG (4) finished second last time over 2150m at Cagnes-sur-Mer, beaten 2 lengths. Tackling a more suitable race this time so he is one of the main contenders. DUMONET (6) resumes after a break of four-and-a-half months. Did win at his only other first-up run when on debut, scoring over 1500m at Tarbes. Solid top-three hope.