Sixth two years ago, Sergio Henao missed last year’s race as he continued to undergo blood tests after Team Sky questioned his blood levels at altitude.

Cleared to race again, the Colombian – after a crash, suffered as he recced the route for the Tour de Suisse stage seven time trial, curtailed his season last year – has been back to his best this season.

A strong ride in support of team-mate Ben Swift kicked off proceedings before he carried the yellow jersey at the Tour of the Basque Country from stage three to the stage six time trial, only to lose out to Joaquim Rodriguez (Katusha) on the final day.

His form there suggested he could do something this spring, however, with a second place at the 2013 La Flèche Wallonne also on his palmares.

The 27-year-old looks set to be supported by the likes of Peter Kennaugh, Lars-Petter Nordhaug and Wout Poels as Sky look to build on a strong all-round start to the season.

The British team currently top the world rankings – following up Sir Dave Brailsford’s talk of season-long domination – and success for Henao would certainly consolidate that position.