Five Horses To Watch - NEW YEARS DAY

1. Liva

Liva looks a smart recruit for the pair of Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, after his dominant display at Musselburgh at the beginning of December.

He returns to the same venue where he was much to good for Sarvi - who lines up again here, in just his second run over hurdles.

Does have a penalty to negotiate, but certainly one to keep an eye out for in the future.

2. Chica Buena

Same venue - just a little later on, Chica Buena can go in pursuit of a five timer in the Betway Hogmaneigh Handicap Hurdle.

A course and distance winner from two starts ago, she followed up in Listed company in sensational style at Aintree on Becher Chase day.

This filly really looks a progressive figure going forward, and still looks unexposed around her opposition.

3. The Druids Nephew

The Old Boy is back!

Who doesn't love one of the old Cheltenham Festival favourites from yesteryear returning to the scene, to see if he still has the same ability that led him to success almost four years ago in the Ultima Handicap Chase.

Now 12yo, he has been off since April, and well worth a crack here. A stab in the dark against younger rivals, let's see if his experience can prevail.

4. Black Op

Third on chasing debut at Exeter last month, Tom George's Black Op should have of learned a great deal that day and can open his account over fences here.

He was beaten by Defi Du Seuil who he meets again, but does receive weight from the former JCB Triumph Hurdle winner.

A horse held in high regard at home after his exploits over hurdles, and should build on his current profile.

5. Inchcolm

Inchcolm was desperately unlucky not to land a four-timer on Boxing Day, when unshipping Harry Reed at the third fence.

The horse was totally unscathed after being badly hampered, but has a chance to put the form guide back to 1's, with a success in the Racing Again 10th January Handicap Hurdle - the final race at Catterick tomorrow.

Two wins at Hexham either side of success at Doncaster, this 9yo gelding really has risen to the task on each occasion when appearing to be in trouble, but another solid effort expected here if standing up.