THE King George is almost always a fascinating race, but this year, even in the absence of Altior, there appear to be more intriguing unknowns than usual. You just can’t wait for the race to be run now so that the unknowns can be known.

You can make cogent cases for each of the top three in the market. Cyrname is the highest-rated horse in the race, the joint-highest-rated steeplechaser in training, and he is Harry Cobden’s choice. Lostintranslation was a top-class novice last season and, winner of the Betfair Chase last time, he has progressed again since he has stepped up to three miles. And Clan Des Obeaux is last year’s winner.