EARTH KING (4) was most recently at the races seven months ago. Closed the last campaign with a win in a hurdle (4600m) at Exeter, getting home by 0.8 lengths. Set to run well again while fresh. EBONY WARRIOR (3) returned from a spell last start with a win in a hurdle (4200m) at Warwick with today's rider Kielan Woods aboard. Genuine contender with added fitness. ERNEST GRAY (5) returns from a 143-day spell. Hasn't raced since he failed to complete the course in a hurdle (4880m) at Doncaster. Sure to be competitive. SHANTOU EXPRESS (6) returned from a spell last start with a solid third in a hurdle (4600m) at Bangor-On-Dee with today's rider Ciaran Gethings steering. That run was the first for the Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls yard. Back in good order and looks likely to feature.