David Gilbert made a perfect start in Group 5 of the 2019 Championship League despite only receiving a late call-up into the tournament.

The 37-year-old, who reached the final of the World Open earlier this season, was only granted his place at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena after Luca Brecel’s late withdrawal, but he took full advantage of his opportunity by winning all four of his matches on Monday.

First of all the world number 19 edged a tight contest with Joe Perry 3-2, with a break of 100 wrapping up the victory in the deciding frame.

The Englishman then recorded back-to-back 3-1 successes over Barry Hawkins and Anthony McGill, recording five breaks over 50 in the process, but he saved his most eye-catching victory until his final match of the day, as he saw off world number one Mark Selby 3-2.

Gilbert came from 2-1 down to claim the victory that sees him sit clear at the top of the group, with a place in the play-off positions looking likely even if he were to lose his final two group games on Tuesday against Ali Carter and Stephen Maguire.

The Derby-native has won his two most recent meetings with Carter and he is priced at 2.10 to claim another win on Tuesday, while his opponent is available at 1.70.

Gilbert’s record against Maguire is less impressive, however, as he has won only one of his four previous clashes with the Scot.