Bettini better for Liège

Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) had his final physiotherapy session yesterday ahead of his return to racing at today's Giro del Trentino. The Italian will contest the three day race in his homeland in preparation for this weekend's Liège - Bastogne - Liège.

Bettini was forced to miss the Amstel Gold Race earlier this week after a fall at Spain's País Vasco left him unable to train with a broken rib. As a result of his program change, Bettini will also sit out Flèche Wallonne tomorrow.

"I still have a few contracted muscles caused by my fall in Spain," said Bettini. "But to be honest, looking back at the gravity of that fall, I am really happy to be back on my bike racing in such a short time. I just hope the weather improves over the next few days so that I can do a good job in preparation for the Liège."

The double world champion admitted late last week he has a special connection with the Belgian race in Liège.