Timeform UK SmartPlays: Thursday January 8

Irish Buccaneer - 13:30 Leicester

A pretty useful contest. Irish Buccaneer wasn't foot perfect on his chase debut in October so the fact he finished second is encouraging and he could take a bit of stopping with a more polished round on his return from a short break. The in-form Gold Ingot should give another good account of himself, while point winner Medieval Chapel is a likely improver now chasing.

Russborough - 13:40 Catterick

Russborough hasn't been seen since a couple of outings over hurdles on joining this yard last spring, but appeals as the type who could do better now handicapping and is worth chancing ahead of the more established pair Pearls Legend and Cody Wyoming. Less Time would also very much enter the reckoning if the betting speaks in his favour.

Goldie Horn - 15:30 Leicester

Goldie Horn took a big step back in the right direction when third at Huntingdon in November and returns from a short break with her yard in terrific form, so she looks the way to go. Last-time-out winner Worldor remains well treated on old form, with Astaroland a potential improver.

Timeform UK SmartPlays

Back Irish Buccaneer @ 3.7511/4 in the 13:30 Leicester
Back Russborough @ 6.411/2 in the 13:40 Catterick
Back Goldie Horn @ 8.07/1 in the 15:30 Leicester