Andrew Talansky cemented his burgeoning reputation with a dramatic overall victory at the 2014 Criterium du Dauphiné, sealed on the final day of last year’s race.

And the young American returns as defending champion this time out to lead a team which also includes fit-again Dan Martin.

The manner of last year’s win – when Talansky burst clear in a group late on the final day on an undulating route – is unlikely to be repeated but there is no reason to suggest Talanksy can’t defend his title.

Illness at the Tour of California has disrupted his preparations a little – he was among the favourites for the race in his home country, but couldn’t finish the first stage.

However, the 26-year-old has since recovered to win the national time trial title and will need to stick with the big names in the mountains again this year, as he did at last year’s race before his late, successful dash for the yellow jersey.

Injury and illness has not been kind to Talansky since then, but the race in which he earned his biggest career victory to date will be the ideal stage to put things right.

Andrew Talansky – form guide

Best 2015 results:  United States National Time Trial Championship (winner), United States National Road Race (seventh)

Best Criterium du Dauphine result: Winner (2014)