Cavendish explains disappointment after "best form for easily a decade"

Mark Cavendish's absence from the Tour de France was a theme of discussion for many, and although the race is already in it's third week, some still have the Manxman in the spotlight, giving him another opportunity to explain his feelings towards the decision.

In an interview with BBC North West Tonight, the Manxman said that regarding his non-selection to the Grand Boucle. "it is what it is, obviously I'd love to do it, I've always built my whole career around it. But I'm a professional at the end of the day, I ride for a team, there's 30 riders on the team… you've ultimately got to take the emotion out of it, and look at it as a kind of a job I guess."

"I know I'll win again," he stated confidently. With Fabio Jakobsen taking charge of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team's main focus this year, he was given the confidence and undisputed leadership for the sprints, where he won on first attempt in Nyborg. Cavendish in the meantime is sitting out of competition, and is likely to return to the peloton at the Tour de Pologne. 

"The only thing I regret is that I know I was in the form to win there," he said, having won the national championships the week before. "I'm in my best form for easily a decade, you know? And it's kind of like when you think that's gone to waste a bit, that can be hard".

Although his next stop is unknown, the veteran will be moving teams for the coming season. He shrugged off thoughts of retirement: "I don't see myself retiring, I think as long as I know I'll win then I'll carry on my career. And I know I'll win so I'll carry on my career, and hopefully get to win there again."