Quick Step set for competitive Tirreno-Adriatico

Quick Step is set for a strong performance at Tirreno-Adriatico, according to team sport director Luca Guercilena. Tom Boonen will lead the Belgian squad when the race commences in Tuscany tomorrow.

"We'll be present at the race of 'two seas' with a very competitive team line up," said Guercilena. "We'll be able to rely on Tom Boonen for the group sprints. Just like last year Tom has chosen the short Italian stage race as preparation for Milano-Sanremo. The spring classic Milano-Sanremo race is always one of Tom's principal objectives for the beginning of the season before the classic 'cobbles' races begin."

In addition to Boonen the squad will field Tour Down Under winner Allan Davis. The Historical race will also see the return of Stijn Devolder who has been suffering from knee problems.

"Alongside Tom will be Allan Davis who has already gained fantastic results at the Tour Down Under," said Guercilena. "Allan will be looking to leave his mark in some of the more selective stages. Stijn Devolder who is back racing after having problems with his knee will be looking for a good result in the fifth time trial stage."

Quick Step for Tirreno-Adriatico: Tom Boonen, Allan Davis, Dries Devenyns, Stijn Devolder, Kevin Hulsmans, Matteo Tosatto, Marco Velo and Maarten Wynants.