'I think he's got a brilliant chance'- our panellists preview the weekend

Who wins the Close Brothers Handicap Chase at Kempton?

Paul Binfield, Paddy Power/Betfair Tom George has had a quiet season by his high standards but Kempton specialist Double Shuffle can brighten it. It’s more than three years since he was runner-up to Might Bite in the King George and, while he might not still be that good, he’s only 3lb higher than when third to Royale Pagaille here at this trip at Christmas. That’s blue-chip form and he backed it up with victory here last month.

Richard Birch, tipster Double Shuffle can emulate 2012 winner Nacarat, who was also trained by Tom George, by landing this at the age of 11. His best performances have come at Kempton and he was a gallant second to Walt in this race two years ago off a 9lb higher mark. Drying ground suits him perfectly.

Al Dancer: an impressive winner at Cheltenham in OctoberCredit: Edward Whitaker

Mark Brown, Racing Post analyst Al Dancer initially caught my eye as I’ve long thought he wants 3m, but the one I like most is Clondaw Castle. He’s run well in a pair of Grade 2s, chasing home Mister Fisher and Master Tommytucker, since winning a handicap at Newbury in November and still looks nicely treated. Like Al Dancer he gets to tackle 3m for the first time, something that ought to suit.