Dual winner Silviniaco Conti heads a small but select field of five for the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday.
Successful in 2012 and 2014, the Paul Nicholls-trained nine-year-old warmed up for another crack at this prestigious race with an encouraging prep run over hurdles at Kempton.
Cue Card, who had Silviniaco Conti back in third place when landing this prize in 2013, renews rivalry.
Colin Tizzard's inmate had his troubles after that, and was only fourth when defending his crown 12 months ago, but returned to form with a convincing victory over Dynaste in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on his reappearance.
The David Pipe-trained Dynaste, placed in this race for the last two years, stands his ground as he looks to make it third-time lucky.
Tom Scudamore's mount will be joined by stablemate Ballynagour, who was third in the Charlie Hall.
Completing the quintet is the Jonjo O'Neill-trained Holywell, who was fifth in the Charlie Hall on his first run since April.
There were two withdrawals at the 48-hour final declaration stage - the Rebecca Curtis-trained O'Faolains Boy and Philip Hobbs' Menorah.
