Portrait King© Photo Healy Racing
Irish hopes in Saturday's Betfred Eider Chase rest with Thebarrowman and Portrait King.
Adrian Keatley's novice Thebarrowman is yet to win over the bigger obstacles but was fourth in Grade One company on his penultimate outing, while the Pat Griffin-trained Portrait King took this prize back in 2012.
Neil King is hopeful Bryony Frost will maintain her partnership with Milansbar at Newcastle.
The pair teamed up to win the Classic Chase at Warwick last time out and King feels everything is in place for another big run.
The trainer said: "Four miles and heavy ground should be perfect, the race looks tailor-made for him.
"He's been second in a Midlands National so we know he stays the trip perfectly well.
"We hope Bryony will be available to ride again as she can take 3lb off.
"The season she is having, she's on the crest of a wave and her confidence is so high, she just keeps rolling on. Horses simply jump and gallop for her."
Chase The Spud has been left at the head of the weights following the withdrawal of Vicente.
Houblon Des Obeaux and Emperor's Choice are in for Venetia Williams, while Sue Smith could run Hainan and Smooth Stepper.
Harry Whittington's Vinnie Lewis and David Pipe's Daklondike are two young stayers on the up, with Knockanrawley and West Of The Edge in the mix as well.
Former winner Milborough is also engaged.
