Several other riders will be keen to prove themselves at Milan-San Remo, not least 2013 winner Gerald Ciolek (MTN-Qhubeka), who enjoyed a steady Tirreno-Adriatico.

He and chief lead-out man Edvald Boasson Hagen will carry the South African teams hopes of a second triumph in this race, while former winner Matt Goss could also be in their line-up.

Greg van Avermaet (BMC Racing) is also in top form, winning on the uphill finish into Arezzo having early taken second place at Strade Bianche.

He and team-mate Philippe Gilbert will lead the American team’s charge, with van Avermaet keen to turn his near misses at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and the Tour of Flanders last year into victories.

Also in good form is Juan Jose Lobato (Movistar), who has collected stage wins at the Tour Down Under and Ruta del Sol to prove he can be more than just an also-ran when it comes to sprinting.

Fourth last year, the Spaniard will likely feature at the sharp end again this time out.

Andre Greipel (Lotto-Soudal) needs no introduction when it comes to sprinting meanwhile, having proved his form with a Paris-Nice stage win.

Arnaud Demare (FDJ) and last year’s third-place finisher Ben Swift (Team Sky) should also not be written off – particularly after the latter’s superb ride 12 months ago.