Paul Nicholls believes Poquelin has every chance of reversing Paddy Power Gold Cup form with Irish raider Tranquil Sea in the Ryanair Chase.

The 7yo was 5l behind his rival last November, but went one place better in the Boylesports Gold Cup.

Nicholls said: "He is in good order and he loves to be fresh. It is a step up but his form has worked out well and he is one of my best chances of the week."

Sea set to make waves

Tranquil Sea warmed up for today's Ryanair Chase with victory over 2m1f.

Trainer Edward O'Grady said: "I am very happy with him. Ruby Walsh was critical of him the last day, saying he beat Grand National horses, but it was not my fault what else was in the race and he won dead easy.

"He has stepped up from handicap company to Grade 2 and is now going to a Grade 1, but I am hopeful."

Shop open for Air assault

Barbers Shop has chased home Denman and Kauto Star the last twice, and drops in trip for the Ryanair Chase today.

Nicky Henderson said: "He gave chase to Denman when he was at his terrifying best in the Hennessy and did the same to Kauto Star in the King George.

"He has been second over the course and distance twice and we have kept him fresh. This has been the plan and some day he will win a big race."

Voy geared up

Alan King hopes the application of a pair of blinkers will spark Voy Por Ustedes back to life in the Ryanair.

He said: "He is blinkered for the first time and it just might sharpen him up a little bit as well.

"He's had excuses this season, but let's hope we can get him back. I'd love to see him run well and when you consider he was odds-on for this just 12 months ago, he looks a good price."

Hughes in hunt

Dessie Hughes believes his Ryanair Chase contender Schindlers Hunt has improved despite being a 10yo.

The trainer said: "The ground is perfect for him and his runs have been good this year, so we are hopeful. It looks like we'll just escape the rain.

"Possibly he's improved because he's been running well through the winter on ground he hates. If he has improved at all he has to be bang there."

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