JONBON will face just three rivals as he aims to return to winning ways in the Melling Chase at Aintree, according to the declarations for Friday’s card, known as Ladies Day.

El Fabiolo renews his rivalry with Nicky Henderson’s charge, having been narrowly beaten by J.P. McManus’ star at Aintree as a novice hurdler, and more recently in the Celebration Chase. Willie Mullins’ charge is one of two declared for owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, with Matata representing Nigel Twiston-Davies. Dan Skelton’s three-time Grade 1 winner Protektorat completes the line-up.