Much will depend on which version of Royal Approval turns up, the one who won nicely here in December or the one who blew out last month. If it is the former then he would have a good chance on this handicap debut, but ASGARD'S CAPTAIN looks the more solid option on his return to this C&D, over which his record reads 2111. The in-form Charlie's Choice will need them to go a good pace over this trip, but Yokohama is becoming attractively handicapped so therefore makes the shortlist.[David Bellingham]
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Took his record over C&D to 2111 when winning by a length in December; latest third of ten at Southwell (1m4f, Tapeta) has since been boosted by the fourth horse and he is very much of interest returned here.
Looked a nice prospect when winning a novice on his return from six months off over C&D in December, but blew out completely under a penalty back here last month (no explanation offered); a player if returning to the form of his win, but he does have something to prove on handicap debut.
0-8 last year after winning his sole start here (7f) as a 2yo, but having dropped in the weights he ran well when third of ten at Wolverhampton (9.5f, Tapeta) in December; down another 1lb and could play a part if taking another step forward.
Consistent sort who has won twice on the Southwell Tapeta during the winter, the latest when beating Humble Spark by half a length over 1m4f nine days ago; 3lb rise not the end of the world, but he may need a good pace over this trip.
Often in the frame but just 1-17, the win coming at Pontefract (1m, good to firm) in May 2023; off 250 days since running poorly at Ayr last June and the market may indicate what is expected on his return.
Twice runner-up on turf in six completed starts for Peter Chapple-Hyam, but not seen since well held on her AW debut at Wolverhampton (1m4f, Tapeta) in October; changed hands for 25,000gns soon afterwards and worth a market check on debut for new yard.
Four wins over 1m2f/1m4f here, the latest when beating three rivals last month; closely matched with Charlie's Choice on recent Southwell running (1m4f, Tapeta), but is off a new career-high mark so a bit more will be needed; often misses the break.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
