Team Sky’s ‘diesel’ par excellence Englishman Ian Stannard, second in Glasgow in last year’s national road race despite a puncture, has largely made his name as an outstanding domestique for the British team but his own ability is also unquestioned. Sixth at Milan-San Remo last year, in treacherous conditions, Stannard is more than capable of attacking from the front. A growing band of admirers is touting ‘Yogi’ as  future winner of a Monument Classic.

If he can replicate the power and stamina he showcased at the 2012 national championships, when he won the title, he will feature at the sharp end in the Commonwealth Games’ road race. The make-up of England’s team for the Games is far from decided, but if Stannard features, expect him to be among the leading candidates for a medal.