White Birch (GB) (Ulysses {Ire}) will not line out in Saturday's Coral-Eclipse after connections revealed the Group 1 scorer has recorded an unsatisfactory blood test.
In the John Murphy-trained four-year-old's absence, City Of Troy (Justify) is now as short as 2-5 to build on his Epsom heroics at Sandown.
George Murphy, assistant trainer to his father John, told the Racing Post, “White Birch had a blood test this morning and unfortunately it hasn't come back 100 per cent perfect.
“As a result, we've decided not to travel to Sandown for the Eclipse this weekend. The horse is in good form at home and we're looking forward to the rest of the season with him.”
This is the second time that White Birch has been deemed a late defector as he missed the Prince Of Wales's Stakes due to poor bloods.
In his absence, City Of Troy will be given most to think about by Dancing Gemini (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) and Ghostwriter (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) while a maximum field of 10 will now line out for the 1m2f Group 1.
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