Victorious in 2013, Team Sky’s leading man Chris Froome wants his yellow jersey back and is determined to use the hurt of last year – when he crashed out on stage five – to spur him on.

And on the back of two stage wins and overall victory at the Criterium du Dauphine, the Kenyan-born Brit, 30, certainly has the form to show he can win the maillot jaune.

With victory at the Ruta del Sol and third overall the Tour de Romandie also on his palmares for the season, the Team Sky man is set for a four-way showdown with Nairo Quintana (Movistar), Alberto Contador (Tinkoff-Saxo) and Vincenzo Nibali (Astana).

Froome has proved he can better them all at various points over the past few years, but to do so again at the Tour is likely to take one of the greatest performances in the race’s history.

Chris Froome is the man in form though, and if lady luck stays on his side he will be a big favourite for at least a fifth Grand Tour podium place.

Chris Froome at the Tour de France

2015 highlights: Ruta del Sol (stage win, winner overall), Tour de Romandie (third overall), Criterium du Dauphine (two stage wins, winner overall).

Tour de France participations: three (2012- 2014)
Best overall finish: winner (2013)
Stage wins: four (2012, 2013(x3))

What to expect: Froome will likely look to bide his time early on, staying safe on the flat stages and keeping tabs on his rivals. As soon as the race enters the mountains though, it will be game on. Expect Team Sky to mass on the front and Froome to launch attack after attack.