With all due respect to Andrew Parker, it was always expected that Settledoutofcourt (13:50 Hexham) would improve for the switch to Lucinda Russell, one of Scotland's top trainers. Strictly speaking, Settledoutofcourt ran just respectably at Wetherby on his first run for Russell, though he went for a long way as though he'd do better, fading only on the run-in. Second in an Irish point before he joined Parker, Settledoutofcourt should make a chaser and, with his fitness now assured, ought to be up to showing improved form. He almost certainly wouldn't need to make a giant leap to see off this low-grade field.
We hereafter focus on Musselburgh, which is probably the day's feature card. The 14:35, a two-mile handicap hurdle, is the first of two Class 2 races and has attracted runners from as far afield as South Wales and Suffolk. Willow's Saviour, whose own journey from the Dan Skelton yard south of Birmingham is no stroll to the corner shop, appears to offer the best value. He carries a 6-lb penalty for scoring at Ascot over the weekend, which he did in the manner of a much-improved horse, tanking through the race and firmly in control once in front approaching two out. Although temperament concerns were cited when Willow's Saviour was with Charlie Longsdon, it's unlikely that Saturday's run will have got to anywhere near the bottom of him, while he travelled as though even this sharp two miles won't put too much emphasis on speed. He should be shorter than 4.03/1.
Our final SmartPlay comes in the other Class 2 at Musselburgh, half an hour after the first. It's a fairly competitive race in which the value appears to be a bit further down the betting. Arctic Court is one of the best handicapped in the field based on old form, as well as his success back in April from just 4 lb lower. He reunites here with Denis O'Regan, who has been on board for his best recent efforts and returns to conditions that should be just about ideal. The likes of So Fine and Cappellanus are respected, arriving as they do at the top of their game, but taking a bit more of a chance on Arctic Court at 9.417/2 looks a much more sensible investment.
Timeform UK SmartPlays
Back Settledoutofcourt @ 3.929/10 in the 13:50 Hexham
Back Willow's Saviour @ 4.03/1 in the 14:35 Musselburgh
Back Arctic Court @ 9.417/2 in the 15:05 Musselburgh
