Defied traffic issues and brief stride woes to run 5th of 13 in a 2100m Class D over main track 2.5 weeks ago. Goes barefoot again and should have this in the bag if his driver keeps him out of trouble

Got off the mark in a 2825m Cordemais Class F on 5 January. Pitted against better this time and even though barefoot for the occasion, still appears to have too much to do

Runner-up in last 2, most recently a 2000m Lyon-Parilly Class F on 14 December. Races unshod behind but in this category can expect to have few friends

4th of 10 after being denied a run in a 2175m Class E here 9 days ago. Unlikely to lose his maiden tag but can still pick up a first-5 cheque

Made up for Chartres sanction when 4th of 12 finishers in a 2700m Class E at Lyon-La Soie on 11 December. Can trot when focused, races first-time barefoot, and from the 5-spot can give this a good go

Sanctioned in 2 over the main track, latterly when storming up in a 2700m Class E on 15 January. Trainer in the bike this time, will be more suited to these conditions, and could pleasantly surprise

Made it 2 for 2 when dominating a 2550m Bordeaux Class F 3 weeks ago. Faces a tougher test this time but benefits from a Benjamin Rochard drive and must be taken at face value. Chance

Ran 5th under the saddle before faulting in a 2700m Class E here mid-month. Is plainly in shape though, is better than most here, and can figure prominently if he stays in stride

Respectable but unthreatening 5th of 10, a place behind LETS GO HAPPY (4), in a 2175m Class E here 9 days ago. Hind shoes back on but no more than a minor place chance

Last but one in a 2850m Class E over inner course here on 7 January. Competitively-shod this time but still not easy to recommend