Tim Merlier reacts to his chances of winning the Paris-Roubaix: "My condition needs to be, let’s not say 100%, but 130%"

Whether Tim Merlier becomes this year's Paris-Roubaix revelation remains to be seen, however his Soudal - Quick-Step boss Patrick Lefevere is convinced the Belgian sprinter has what it takes to succeed at the cobbled Monument.

"He's a former cyclo-crosser so he should be good in Paris-Roubaix as well," Lefevere told GCN. "A win is of course not easy but last year, he was in the battle in front for a long time, but unfortunately in Paris-Roubaix, the bad luck rides with you and he had a flat tyre in a very bad moment. We will see. He has one more year's experience because he started late on the road, but he's strong."

"I believe also a little bit!" Merlier admitted. "My condition needs to be, let’s not say 100%, but 130% or something, and a lot of luck also. We work every year to have that goal but until now, it didn’t work out well. This year we try again and I still believe a good result is possible."

"It must be the perfect situation," laughs Merlier. "Maybe with 30 guys or something! With the wind from the good side all day, some teammates still in the bunch and they do a good lead-out. Maybe it will be possible, I think this is the dream, but why not?"