For CCC Team`s Greg Van Avermaet, there`s very little between success and failure when it comes to the Classics. A third place here, a rousing ride up the Kwaremont there; they ultimately mean little for a rider who defines his entire career by the number of Monument wins they can look back on upon retiring. At present, Van Avermaet`s tally stands at one, with a cobblestone from the 2017 edition of Paris-Roubaix nestled nicely on his mantlepiece. It`s a meagre tally, some might say, given his diverse talents and years of service to the one-day cause, yet the 33-year-old remains relaxed ahead of this Sunday`s `Hell of the North` - his last cobbled appointment of the 2019 campaign. `I`m confident that I can win,` Van Avermaet said as he pulled to a standstill at the Roubaix velodrome after a recon ride on Friday.ADVERTISEMENT `I`m at the right level, while some riders aren`t there. I`m one of the favourites, but everything has to go perfectly. There`s a possibility I won`t win a Classic this season, but I can`t regret anything because I`ve done everything right in preparation.` Van Avermaet has been around the block enough, and he knows full well that form can go out the window, especially at Roubaix, where the harshness of the cobbles are just as unforgiving no matter how many stars L`Equipe has awarded you on the morning of the race. A puncture at the wrong time, a touch of wheels, or even the briefest of moments on the wrong wheel can end a favourite`s race in the blink of an eye. One area in which Van Avermaet can at least count on is the unwavering support of his team. The CCC Team set-up is built around the Belgian`s hopes and dreams, and there is no `plan B` should he falter.
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