With Joaquim Rodriguez returning to the Tour de France, perhaps Dan Martin – another injury victim at the Giro d’Italia after crashing heavily in the team time trial – could follow suit. The team have already announced Ryder Hesjedal will not be taking part, and though Andrew Talansky is likely to lead the team, Martin would certainly have a part to play if he is selected.

The Irishman has excelled since his Volta a Catalunya and Liege-Bastogne-Liege success last year. He was desperately unlucky not to add another Ardennes Classic to his palmares – finishing second at La Fleche Wallonne before crashing out of Liege-Bastogne-Liege when he looked set to win.

Nevertheless, his climbing ability has never been in doubt – his ability to attack on the inclines has been matched only by the likes of Joaquim Rodriguez and Nairo Quintana in recent months. A GC challenge may be beyond him if he does compete, but there will be several stages to take his fancy – particularly in the final week.