SPINNER LOOKS A WINNER

GIVEN he went into the race with proven form as a strong stayer, it was surprising to see Joe Colliver set such a pedestrian pace in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham on

Jedd O’keeffe’s star had previously looked a far better horse setting a more generous pace at Ascot over Christmas and it’s to be hoped Colliver does the same today — and the pair are taken to reverse Festival placings with Wholestone.

has been the only horse to put it up to Samcro this season and deserves to get his head in front.

He has showed that heavy ground held no fears for him with another runner-up spot at Cheltenham and the only thing to put punters off today is his short price.

I don’t know how, but

is without a win all season.

He put in a careerbest effort when sixth to Bleu Barry in the Coral Cup last time and is fancied to go closer here from the same mark.

Just in case it’s a case of last man standing in the Grand National, then

is preferred to The Last Samuri on Becher Chase form.

However, if there are plenty left in the closing stages, it’s likely they’ll both get outstayed.

TODAY’S SELECTIONS

Aintree

1.45 Red Indian

2.25 Black Op

3.00 Diego Du Charmil 3.40 Ibis Du Rheu

4.20 Sam Spinner

5.15 Blaklion