I lost because of a muscle strain

Roman dropped out of top ten after the weekend´s stages at the Giro d´Italia. Before the start of the third week he holds 12^th position. He lost a good position in the GC on account of his muscle strain that started to bother him during the long time trial. “But I hope that it will get better and I will be able to help Alberto as much as possible,” said Roman.

“So far I am pleased with my performance, only the last two days were not ideal. During the time trial I strained my thigh muscles and I couldn’t use them as I wanted. I suffered a little bit because of that on Sunday,” described Roman.

“My physiotherapist eased the pain a little bit this morning before the team ride and in the evening our team masseur will take a look. I hope that the rest will do me good and I will be fit to help Alberto,” admitted Roman.

In the Sunday´s stage he had a problem on the downhill but he lost contact with the front group on the ascent. “We dropped off the group 4km before the top and I believed that we would manage to get back on the downhill. But Anton crashed in front of me and plus, a motorbike was in my way so I did not negotiate the curve. I did not fall down but before I got back to the road the group was gone. Luckily, Alberto made it on his own even if he was outnumbered,” said Roman.

He is hopeful that the Tinkoff-Saxo riders will support their leader in the most difficult days of the Giro. “We have to muster all our strength and help Alberto. I would like to keep up with him as long as possible and if I came back into top ten it would be great. But the most important thing is to secure the pink jersey until Milano,” added Roman.