Froome to lead team invuelta

TOUR DE FRANCE runner-up Chris Froome is set to lead Team Sky’s Vuelta a Espana campaign, the British cycling squad have announced.

Froome, who finished behind team-mate Bradley Wiggins in the Tour, was named in the squad alongside fellow Britons Ian Stannard and Ben Swift.

Olympic road race silver medallist Rigoberto Uran, Juan Antonio Flecha, Sergio Henao, Danny Pate, Richie Porte and Xabier Zandio complete the nine-man squad.

Froome finished second in the 2011 Vuelta, one place ahead of Wiggins, and willbe expected to challenge the returning Alberto Contador for the overall title.

“It’s always been my plan to ride the Vuelta,” the 27-year-old said.

“I’ll be going into the race as team leader but that’s not to say we don’t have other guys who can be right up there on the GC (general classification).

“Rigoberto and Sergio both have huge potential, and Richie is another guy who could shine.

“I’m going to do the best job I can and do whatever’s required of me from the team.

“Initially I’ll be riding for the GC, but if one of my team-mates shows that they’re in a better place to win the race then I’ll happily work for them.

He added: “We’re sending a first-rate squad and race.”

Froome sparked some controversy in the Tour on the final mountain stage as he appeared to leave team leader Wiggins stranded on the final climb.

Froome finished second on the stage behind Spaniard Alejandro Valverde and looked to be the stronger of the two Britons on the final climb to Peyragudes.

Swift is the nominated sprinter for the campaign in Spain.

He added: “I’m really excited about being the team’s main sprinter.

“There should be plenty of opportunities for me and I’ll be doing my best to get my first Grand Tour stage win.”

it should be a really exciting

Chris Froome – second in last year’s race.