Timeform UK SmartPlays: Sunday February 2

We kick off Sunday's action with a fiercely competitive handicap hurdle over an extended three miles (13:00) in which it might pay to side with Pay The King. He shaped very well in a stronger  contest than this at Cheltenham in November on what was his handicap debut, and should have improved for that experience. Despite being 5 lb out of the weights he makes plenty of appeal to improve past some of his opponents, and gets the nod. However, as is always the case with these qualifying events, the dangers come thick and fast, with Crowning Jewel and Monetary Fund heading the list of likely challengers.

It's a handicap chase over two miles under consideration next (14:00) which looks to be full of interesting contenders. The handicapper has given His Excellency a real chance on the pick of his form and he should really be involved at the finish, but Upepito is narrowly preferred. He showed useful form when winning at Auteuil in September and is clearly highly rated at home, despite disappointing on his debut for Venetia Williams at Market Rasen. The drop back in trip might be the key to unlocking his potential and it would be no surprise to see him get back on track. 

Our final bet of the day comes in another two-mile chase, this time for novices (15:00) in which a chance is taken on Ericht to confirm the promise of his chasing debut. He was a smart performer in bumpers and over hurdles, and showed plenty of promise at Doncaster on his first try over the larger obstacles. He was disappointing at Kempton last time but it transpired that he lost a shoe and it is worth forgiving him that effort; he should be able to return to winning ways today. Stablemate Top of The Range probably heads the dangers.  

Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Musselburgh

Back Pay The King in the 13:00
Back Upepito in the 14:00
Back Ericht in the 15:00