Michele Scarponi (Lampre-Merida) came to Liège-Bastogne-Liège in search of answers prior to next month’s Giro d’Italia and although he didn’t win in Liège, he declared himself satisfied with his performance after finishing the race as the best Italian rider, taking 5th place.

“I came here looking for answers ahead of the Giro d’Italia, and I’ve found them,” Scarponi told Italian state TV-channel Raisport after the race. “I was the one who initiated the decisive move and all in all I think I performed well, as did the entire team. In the finale I lacked a little power to stay at the wheel of Rodriguez when he made his move, but all things considered I believe I can be satisfied because I gave everything I had.”

Scarponi will be leading the Lampre-Merida team when the Giro d’Italia kicks off in Naples on May 4.