Daniel Martin set to ride Giro d'Italia

Ireland's Dan Martin is set race the Giro d'Italia for his first time this year alongside experienced Garmin-Transitions team-mate David Millar.

"If he keeps riding like this, I don't see why not," Team Manager Jonathan Vaughters told Cycling Weekly.

Vaughters will confirm the team selection next week, but Martin's inclusion in the nine-man almost secured.

Martin and Canadian Ryder Hesjedal led the team at Flèche Wallonne today in Belgium. Hesjedal placed 10th three days after placing second at Amstel Gold and 23-year-old Martin placed 18th.

"My legs are fantastic, but I didn't have that top end and I was a little blocked by my allergies," Martin told Cycling Weekly.

"I rode a perfect race and the boys looked after me. Plus, Ryder was 10th, we had two guys in the top 20. I need to sort out these allergies and then I can challenge for these classics in the future."

Though 18th, Martin was only 19 seconds behind the winner, World Champion Cadel Evans. The performance is a good sign for the longest and oldest Ardennes Classics, Liège-Bastogne-Liège.

"I am looking forward Sunday. I felt like I could have race strongly for another 50 to 60 kilometres today," added Martin. "Liège is going to be fun."

Martin made his Grand Tour debut at the Vuelta a España last year. He planned to race the Tour de France last year, but had to forfeit two days ahead of the race with knee problems.

Related links

Evans claims first victory as World Champ at Fleche Wallonne

2010 Giro d'Italia coverage in association with Zipvit