Trainer Roger Charlton has conceded that Aspetar may struggle to compete in the Juddmonte International at York this month.
The five-year-old won on the Knavesmire last month, with Charlton’s charge beating Fox Chairman and Lord Glitters in the Sky Bet York Stakes.
Aspetar, a Group One winner in Germany last September, claimed the Group Two prize after a sensational display and the bookies have him priced as a contender for the Juddmonte International on August 19.
However, Charlton has tried to play down expectations as his charge attempts to get the better of ante-post favourite Ghaiyyath.
Charlton told reporters: “He could run in the Juddmonte International, (but) I think realistically we’re trying to get placed.
“I think there were a few disappointments in the York Stakes. It was a great effort from our horse – and he won well – but he’s not going to beat the Appleby horse (Ghaiyyath), he’s not going to beat Lord North, and he’s not going to beat Kameko if he turns up.
“If we could finish third or fourth it would be great. There aren’t many options if you win a Group Two. I looked in France, and you have to carry a four-and-a-half-pound penalty taking on horses like Sottsass – you’ve got no chance.
“We might as well try and be third or fourth at York.”
