The perennial contender, Sep Vanmarcke (LottoNL-Jumbo) remains the nearly-man – but once again will carry high hopes of this being his year.

Vanmarcke was third last time out, his fifth of six top-five finishes in the cobbled Classics, and his form has been similar this time out – fourth at E3 Harelbeke, fifth at the Omloop and Strade Bianche and sixth at Gent-Wevelgem.

Vanmarcke has the strength, and proved himself on the Kwaremont last year as he and Cancellara accelerated up to the leading duo on the final circuit.

Where he falls down, however, is his lack of a fast finish – he is likely to have to go long if he wants anything from the race.

One of the brightest hopes for the Dutch Lottery-sponsored team’s hopes of securing an overdue first victory of the season, however, he is without doubt a man to watch.

He looked in good form at E3 Harelbeke too, only to be twice let down at critical moments by his equipment.

If luck is on his side on Sunday, it could finally be the top step of the podium for Vanmarcke.