He let down odds-on backers when beaten into second at Leopardstown last time but Stewart feels the more forceful tactics that are likely to be applied on the opening day will see him in a better light.

“He is ever so well. I know he got beat in Ireland last time but I do think he has a favourite’s chance,” said Stewart.

“We know now that he has got to have quite a bit of made use of, which didn’t happen in Ireland.

“Having looked at the race, there was nothing wrong with what happened that day but we are looking to be bowling along there, well up with the pace at the top of the hill and say ’catch us if you can’.

“Calgary Bay has been beaten by other horses in the Paul Nicholls yard, so we have a yardstick there.

“Of the others I like Tom Cooper’s horse (Forpadydeplasterer) and think he could be the one to give us a run for our money.”

Willie Mullins is keen on the chances of his candidate Golden Silver, winner of the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown on his latest outing.

“I would prefer more rain for Golden Silver but we will take what we get,” said Mullins.

“It is an open race and on the evidence of his win in the Irish Arkle and the way he galloped in Leopardstown the other day, he is certainly going to be there or thereabouts.

“He’s a very sharp jumper which will keep him in the race and if he is good enough after that, we will have to hope for the best."