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Trainer Gay Kelleway is in no doubt Zebstar has what it takes to make his mark at Pattern level following a respectable effort in the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

The Zebedee colt was having his first start since winning on his debut at Newmarket in early May and predictably came up short in the hands of Pat Smullen.

That said, the performance was certainly not devoid of promise, with Zebstar finishing within striking distance of Air Force Blue and Royal Ascot winners Washington DC and Buratino.

Kelleway said: "I was delighted with him, to say the least.

"He hadn't run for three months and was only beaten five lengths by probably the best (two-year-old) in Europe (Air Force Blue).

"He jinked out to his left a bit, which probably cost him fifth place.

"He was a bit slow on the uptake during the race, but Pat said it was just a lack of experience and he had no hesitation in saying he was definitely a Group horse.

"He'd had sore shins since his last run and some of our two-year-olds have had a viral infection - one or two of them still aren't right."

Zebstar is set for another shot at Group One glory in the Prix Morny at Deauville on August 23.

"I know I've left a bit in the locker - I'm sure he'll improve four lengths - and as long as the ground isn't too testing, he'll go for the Morny," said the Newmarket handler.

"The ground was in marvellous condition at the Curragh, we had a great day and the horse didn't disgrace himself. I knew he wouldn't.

"We've had a few offers for him, but he has very sporting owners who don't want to sell and he's a very exciting horse for the future."