First Zaugg, now Oss and Guarnieri for Liquigas

By Gregor Brown

Team Liquigas are building its squad for the 2009 season with the addition of two neo-professionals, adding to yesterday's contract announcement of five-year professional Oliver Zaugg. Italians Daniel Oss and Jacopo Guarnieri will officially join the Italy-based team stating in January.

"Daniel Oss is one of the best dilettanti in Italy. He has always had good results," said Team Manager Roberto Amadio to Cyclingnews. The 21 year-old Trentino of Team Zalf-Fior secured solid placings this season, with a sixth place in the recent Trofeo Alcide Degasperi. "He is strong in one-day races – Classics. We could see him do well in Flanders and Roubaix and helping the sprinters."

Amadio explained the team monitors the young riders coming through the lower ranks. "We are following all the races here in Italy and we have a good relationship with Zalf-Fior."

Jacopo Guarnieri joined Liquigas this fall as a stagiaire. Amadio noted his fast legs. "He has taken 10 or 11 wins thus far."

Liquigas' biggest acquisition came in April when it signed Ivan Basso. Zaugg's arrival will build the team's stage race strength.

"Zaugg is a good climber and a complete rider. He had a great Vuelta [a España] last year. He can be a man for Basso, Pellizotti and Kreuziger, and have his own chances in the Tour de Suisse."