Wootton Verni will be given another opportunity to showcase his talent when he lines up in the $500,000 The Coast (1600m) at Gosford this Saturday, following an underwhelming Australian debut.

The former French galloper was heavily backed in a benchmark 100 event at Randwick on April 26 but failed to fire after a wide run, finishing seventh behind Punch Lane.

Despite the disappointing result, trainer Chris Waller believes there’s more to come from the Group 3-winning import.

“He had shown us that he’s got ability but his overseas form was very good so I’d say that’s where the support came from first-up,” Waller said.

“But we do think he will make the grade in some good races here.

This will be his last run and hopefully we will bring him back for a race like the Epsom Handicap.”

With Jay Ford taking the reins, Wootton Verni has drawn more favourably in barrier seven after several early scratchings.

Waller expects improvement second-up, noting that the conditions at Randwick last start were less than ideal.

“It was a tricky track that day. The rail was out a long way, it was very soft and he will definitely improve,” he said.

“He did most things right and he did have a good blow.”

Also representing the Waller yard in The Coast is Mare Of Mt Buller, who resumes after winning the Epona Stakes (1900m) at Rosehill in March.

Drawn wide and known for settling back in her races, the tight-turning Gosford circuit could pose a test for the mare.

“She just needs a bit of luck from the draw but she is racing well and it’s great prizemoney for a horse like her,” Waller said.