After his breakthrough win in Milan-Turin, Diego Rosa occasionally looked like the strongest rider in Il Lombardia where he rode in support of Vincenzo Nibali before going on to finish fifth.

“It perhaps seemed that I was the strongest but people couldn’t feel the pain in my legs,” he told reporters, including Cyclingnews and Spaziociclismo, at the finish “It’s true though, I felt good. I didn’t get away when I attacked and that showed I wasn’t the strongest but I’m happy with my race.

"I’m pretty young and this is my first-ever Lombardia up front in the thick of the action. It’s a super tough race and very long, so it’s great to win it and get a result myself.

"I’ve also ridden two Grand Tours this season, riding for the team. I came out of the Vuelta in great form and won my first race by taking Milano-Torino on Thursday. I’ve shown myself what I can do in the future.

“Winning has boosted my moral. I’d heard a lot of people describe me as a good rider but not a winner, which means you’re just a domestique really. I don’t mind that but I’ve silenced a few people now. I also wanted to prove a point to the team. I wanted to show that they can trust me to do an important job if needed or even play my own cards.

“Today we were all riding for Vincenzo. I was strong but it was all for him and he proved he deserved it. If I’d gone away alone, then he would have helped me because we’re teammates but the tactics were all for him and I’m happy he was won.”