42x16ss said:
Ewan will be more like McEwen in his early years than a puncheur - a versatile sprinter with good top speed, similar to Degenkolb. Cort on the other hand may end up being very similar to Matthews. Cort looks like a massive talent but do wonder at the decision considering who OGE already have.
Edit: Now I think about it, how long does Impey have left on his contract? Cort would be a more than suitable replacement if he leaves and if he doesn't, someone will have to replace Gerrans and Albasini eventually.
Impey resigned last season for a further 3 years until end of 2016. He's only generally no1 man for certain smaller non WT races but is sufficient an all rounder to be able to collect top 10's in 1 week races (2014 TdU, 2014 Bayern Rundfahrt, 2013 Eneco) as well as stages in good races here and there. For major 1 day races he's generally a key worker or at best, an alternative option if designated leader is on a bad one.
Albasini also "re-upped" last year, for another 2 until end of next year. He'll be 35 then. What happens then may depend on his 2015 form AND his attitude. Apart from his own results, he's also shown willingness to do the team thing in major races so it's possible his experience and savvy may see him as a road captain for a further year or so ?
For 2015, I don't see major expectation being placed on either Ewen or Cort but rather see them get race miles and knowledge under their belt ..... and if their form and opportunities coincide with results then that's bonus.
With the Yates, neither do I see them being lumbered with leadership. For one day races, I suspect it will be a case of "learning the courses" and being key workers cum alternate options. For GTs, I suspect it will be a case of given protection on the flatlands and placed in best possible positions for the bottom of climbs but not major expectations re overall placings.
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram