Marchante does not feel at his best

By Antonio J. Salmerón

José Angel Gomez Marchante of Saunier Duval-Prodir arrived at the Vuelta a España as one of the main candidates for the overall, but now, two weeks later, he questions his preparations and acknowledged the strength of the current race leader, Denis Menchov.

"The Vuelta has been decided," stated Marchante, who is currently in 36th overall, at 31 minutes behind Menchov. He believes that Menchov has proved to be stronger. "He has controlled his rivals. He defends his leadership from the confidence that comes from believing he is the strongest."

Marchante believes his preparations were not ideal. "I worked too much coming into the Vuelta, as well as the possible consequences of my health problems, and the time out of competition. After overcoming my health problems, I have felt mentally stronger, but the morale falls when you see that you are behind."