The Punt Daily: Tom Collins with two to follow on Friday

BANKER

Minella Daddy(3.15 Ascot)

Winner of this race in 2016 off a mark of 131, Peter Bowen's Minella Daddy went on to finish second in a Listed handicap chase before being pulled up when not unfancied in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices' Chase. He was forced to have over a year off the track after that and found life hard on his first four runs back off high marks, but he returned to form last time out at Kempton and looks like ready to strike again. Plenty of his opponents have been struggling recently and he should be able to get an easy lead.

EYECATCHER

Thomas Darby(2.05 Ascot)

A big, imposing son of Beneficial, Thomas Darby started his racing career with a really taking display in a Huntingdon bumper in May and backed up in eyecatching fashion at Cheltenham last month, pulling three and a quarter-lengths clear on the run in. The second that day, Elixir De Nutz, has subsequently boosted the form when winning at the November meeting, while several in behind are highly regarded by their connections. This represents another step up in class but I fancy him to maintain his unbeaten record.

If you are concerned about your gambling and are worried you may have a problem, click here to find advice on how you can receive help