Though Garmin-Sharp are yet to confirm their line-up for the race, Dan Martin has already spoken of his desire to end the season on a high in Lombardy and Beijing.

Stage one of that has already been completed, and how, with his stunning late attack in the season’s final big one-day race on Sunday.

And if he is to take the start line in Beijing, he will do so in form and riding the crest of a wave from the second Monument win of his career.

Second last year, Martin’s counter-punch on Miaofeng Mountain capped a stunning season for the Irishman.

This year’s campaign has been beset by crashes and injuries but, if he can carry his Lombardia form into Beijing he stands a real chance of ending it with double success.