THERE could be a couple of Grand National pointers in today’s Grand National Trial at Haydock, with Blaklion and Vieux Lion Rouge high in the betting for both events. Interestingly, winners of the Haydock race have a really poor record in the Aintree showpiece, but Neptune Collonges was beaten a neck in the Haydock race by Giles Cross in 2012 before going on to win the Grand National under the steadier of 11st 6lb.

Both market leaders are players in today’s race. Blaklion hasn’t won yet in three attempts this season, but he ran well for a long way in the Hennessy, when he travelled as well as any of his rivals into the home straight. Next time in the Rowland Meyrick Chase at Wetherby over Christmas, he seemed to get out-paced when they quickened in front on goodish ground over three miles.