After once again playing a key role in the finale on Friday’s mountainous stage in the Tour de France Chris Froome’s loyal lieutenant, Richie Porte (Sky) said that the Sky team had expected Saxo-Tinkoff and Alberto Contador to launch an attack. He also indicated that Contador might be fearful of being overtaken by Nairo Quintana in the overall classification.

“We were expecting it but I don’t think you can attack off that pace," Porte told the Sky website. "Mick Rogers set a fantastic tempo. I think [Saxo-Tinkoff] are a little bit worried about (Nairo) Quintana. He’s coming and he’s coming fast. Tomorrow is going to be interesting.”

According to Porte the weather conditions on the final descent of the day dictated that he go slower in order to avoid risks.

“On a wet descent there’s not much end for me to risk on that but I’m looking forward to tomorrow. At the Dauphiné we saw if it’s short and lumpy, it’s much more exciting than a long, flat stage.”

Before the final two stages in this year’s Tour de France, Froome leads Contador by 5’11”.