Foot perfect: Footpad looks set for lift off in red-hot Arkle

1.30 Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Willie Mullins has the favourite, as is still traditional, but it’s now rather less traditional for him to win it. After Min and Melon found one too good in the last two renewals, Getabird is the Mullins hotpot this time and there was so much to like on his latest start in the way he beat Mengli Khan.

Kalashnikov arguably brings more solid form, having won a top handicap, and he was very strong at the finish but his need for encouragement at much earlier stages in that race is a concern.

Supporters of Summerville Boy, Sharjah, First Flow and Claimantakinforgan (Nicky Henderson’s sole six-day entry) have grounds for encouragement because this is essentially an unexposed field. One key factor could be what Paloma Blue can deliver if he settles.