GROOVY BLUE (3) failed to complete the course in a hurdle (3900m) at Doncaster two starts back. Atoned for that run last time when he found a couple better, beaten 14 lengths, in a hurdle (3860m) at Ascot. Likely to figure once again. MIKIMOTO (6) returns from a 95-day spell. Hasn't raced since he did not finish the race in a hurdle (5120m) at Hereford. Already a winner over the obstacles. Sure to prove hard to beat. HUNG JURY (4) was unplaced two back in a point to point (4800m) at Chaddesley Corbett then again missed out in a maiden hurdle (3900m) at Chepstow last time. Deserves another chance. EL RAYO (2) returns after three months in the paddock. Kicked off the last prep with a solid third in a 3170m maiden hurdle at Huntingdon, beaten 1.5 lengths. Must be considered.