Keith Melrose thinks this course specialist is one to buy on the spreads

Clyne
2.25 Haydock
Buy at 3 on the index

The Betfair Exchange Stayers' Handicap Hurdle is one of the most competitive handicaps of the season. It combines the slow-developing hurdlers from last season with chasers dipping their toe back in, often off lower marks, as well as the usual raft of horses laid out for a big handicap prize.

Ask for the winner and I might suggest Imperial Alcazar, a model entrant in the first category above. He could run the race of his life and finish fourth, which with him being 15 to buy on the index would count as a loss.

In such a competitive race, recreational spread bettors should look for the solid option or try to find a cheap, low-risk buy. Clyne appeals as being in the latter category.

Clyne has loads of form at Haydock and even more in testing ground. He was second over a bit shy of 3m at Chepstow on Welsh National day last year and has form 10lb better than that if you go back a little further. He is now rated 3lb lower, so the handicapping scope is there if he retains ability.

On his recent reappearance Clyne did not jump well, which is something of a habit for him but the overriding impression left was that he would come on for the run. It looks like he has been laid out for a big run at a course he suits so well. If that is wrong, we have not had to pay much to find out.

2.25 Haydock
Sporting (50-30-20-10): 14-17 The Jam Man, 12-15 Imperial Alcazar, 10-13 Relegate, 9-12 Third Wind, 8-11 Main Fact, Collooney, 4-6 Kalashnikov, Who Dares Wins, West To The Bridge, Dolphin Square, Highland Hunter, 3-5 Ask Dillon, 2-4 Wholestone, Fauberg Rosetgri, 1-3 Clyne, Flashjack, Justatenner

Match bet: Imperial Alcazar/Relegate 0-1.5

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