Top-weight cannot be seen as a positive ahead of Meatloaf’s run un the handicap hurdle at 3.40pm, but he ticks so many other boxes that I cannot resist.
Still a youngster at the age of six, he has won four of his 10 starts, two each in bumpers and over hurdles, and although only fourth of 13 at Newbury in early November, that was his first start in close to 18 months, and he is entitled to improve considerably for the outing.
This will be his second start following wind surgery, often the best time to catch them, and with Freddie Gingell able to claim 7lb from the saddle, I am hopeful if not supremely confident we will see a better run.
Daily Sport Recommended Bet 1/2pt Each Way Meatloaf 3.40pm Wincanton 7/1 Paddy Power