Stat Selector: Thursday 9 February

Glory Bridge - 13:05 Doncaster

Smart Stat: 16% - Donald McCain's strike rate with handicap hurdling debutants 

Glory Bridge overcame inexperience to make a winning debut under Rules in a bumper at Sedgefield last season but he was disappointing when starting a short-price favourite on his return and hurdling debut at Ayr in October. He saw his race out a bit better at Sedgefield on his next start, and he ran his best race to date when runner-up to a promising sort when runner-up over course and distance last time. That was his first run since a breathing operation and he is entitled to progress further now making handicap debut. 

Engelbert - 17:40 Newcastle

Smart Stat: 25% - James Ferguson's strike rate in winter 

Engelbert has caught the eye on a number of occasions so far, but he also came to the stewards attention when finishing runner-up to Fox Master over course and distance a fortnight ago. He was given a very tender ride on that occasion, kept to the rear and weaving his way through runners without being given a hard time, finishing with plenty of running left at the line. Fox Master was making his debut, so could potentially improve a fair bit, but Engelbert sure has a good chance of overturning that form no in receipt of 7 lb. 

Pay For Adaay - 18:40 Newcastle

Smart Stat: 24% - Simon Hodgson's strike rate in winter

Pay For Adaay showed ability amidst greenness on his debut at Windsor in October and built on that promise when opening his account over six furlongs at this course in November. He improved further when following up in great style under a penalty at Southwell last month, showing bags of speed and storming clear inside the final furlong. That form looks solid and the time wasn't bad, either, so he looks very interesting now making his handicap debut.