Has anyone an opinion on how Discovery will attempt to fill Armstrong's shoes next year?
The dilemma as i see it that for the past few years, the odd classic rider apart, Discovery have recruited primarily with Lance's Tour de France exploits in mind.
With him gone do they go with an established Tour contender, a Basso or Cunago for example, or they do they promote from within with the classics in mind.
There was talk ealier this week about Alessandro Pettachi joining, however the whole make up of the team would have to change in order to accommodate him.
Has anyone an opinion on how Discovery will attempt to fill Armstrong's shoes next year?
The dilemma as i see it that for the past few years, the odd classic rider apart, Discovery have recruited primarily with Lance's Tour de France exploits in mind.
With him gone do they go with an established Tour contender, a Basso or Cunago for example, or they do they promote from within with the classics in mind.
There was talk ealier this week about Alessandro Pettachi joining, however the whole make up of the team would have to change in order to accommodate him.
I wonder what Brunyneel has up his sleeve?
I think Azevedo has podium potential. I have tons of respect for him. Only problem for Discovery is that Azevedo is a quiet, strong worker, not a cult of personality like Armstrong.
I don't see Popo placing in the Tour for a few (or more) years. Ulle has a 2-4 years left, Beloki has a come back, Cunego a beginning, and many others.
dont think there is much value in looking at their manpower strategy of the last few years when looking forward - departure of armstrong as a rider is going to free up a whole load of cash to spend on others.
the thing is, armstrong is unique, picking tour winners in the last decade - excepting armstrong and indurain - or picking podum finishers, has not been easy - anyone could come good.
Well I think you can wait 100 years when somebody beats this record......and in my view he's going to win 7!!! However 1 or 2 tour wins is also very good.....The replacement of Armstrong is a non-question, because there isn't anybody now. I also think Popo is more a giro-rider then a tour-rider. I think DC needs to get Basso or Cunego......that is the future. Just my 2 cents..😉
tcklyde said:
I think Azevedo has podium potential. I have tons of respect for him. Only problem for Discovery is that Azevedo is a quiet, strong worker, not a cult of personality like Armstrong.
I don't see Popo placing in the Tour for a few (or more) years. Ulle has a 2-4 years left, Beloki has a come back, Cunego a beginning, and many others.
