Starzintheireyes’ aspirations for The Metropolitan have likely diminished after failing to gain a start in last week’s Kingston Town Stakes, a scenario trainer Tom Charlton suggests may prove fortunate.

The Randwick-based trainer, who manages stables in partnership with John O’Shea, indicated that the prevailing conditions would have been disadvantageous for the gelding.

O’Shea and Charlton have redirected their focus to Saturday’s Toyota Forklifts Handicap (1900m) at Rosehill, viewing it as a suitable alternative and anticipating the gelding’s opportunity to achieve his inaugural win in Australia.

“From the gate he would have gone back and it would have been impossible for him to win the way the track was playing,” Charlton stated regarding the Kingston Town Stakes, which was claimed by The Euphrates.

“Maybe it was a blessing in disguise, but he’s going very well and he’d be a live chance (this week).”

“I’d say it would be unlikely to go to The Metropolitan, but I guess there would some circumstances you would consider it.”

“If he were to finish on the bridle and won easily you’d think about, but at this stage we’d probably think he’s headed in another direction.”

The current plan means Starzintheireyes will face stablemate Mister Rizz in Saturday’s race.

The benchmark 88 handicap was previously scheduled for Starzintheireyes after his dominant first-up victory over 1800m at Hawkesbury on September 5. This marked his first Australian win in three starts, following earlier placings at Scone and Rosehill in May. Charlton expressed high expectations for the gelding.

“He’s quite a raw individual, he still does a few things wrong, but he’s a strong galloper and one that’s got potential in his time here in Australia,” Charlton commented.

“He was good the other day at Hawkesbury in a weak race, he was entitled to win like that, but we feel like he’s progressing in the right direction.”

“There’s still a lot of upside with him and he’s definitely improving, that’s for sure.”

Mister Rizz, a five-year-old by Lope De Vega, has competed in nine races, securing two wins and five placings. He will start from barrier three under Zac Lloyd, while James McDonald is set to ride Starzintheireyes from barrier five.

Consider the available betting sites for placing wagers on the upcoming race.