Andy Schleck (RadioShack-Leopard) strongly denies the existence of any problems or a strained relationship with former teammate Jakob Fuglsang (Astana) because of jealousy.

According to the Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet the once warm and close friendship between the two former teammates is now as good as dead. Earlier today Fuglsang was quoted in the paper’s Tour de France special issue as saying that Schleck had deliberately cut off his friendship with Fuglsang after the latter moved to Astana.

“Of course I’m sad that my friendship with Andy didn’t last,” Fuglsang said. “From his point of view it may be difficult to accept that a former domestique has now turned into a rival. I think it’s harder for him than it is for me. It probably matters that he has gone through a difficult period during the past year. He has had to deal with some problems and of course that affects one’s motivation.”

According to Fuglsang he has tried in vain to remain on friendly terms with Schleck after his switch to Astana.

”I’ve done my part to keep the friendship alive but I can’t continue. I must think about myself and what I have to do to fulfil my ambitions.” The interview also hints that Fuglsang has chosen to move out of his flat which was in the same building as Schleck’s to avoid the latter’s sulky attitudes.

This image of a strained and ultimately deceased friendship is news to Andy Schleck, however. When Cyclingquotes.com spoke to the RadioShack-Leopard team leader earlier today ahead of the Tour de Suisse he was at a loss to explain why the paper would publish such claims by Fuglsang which he clearly didn’t believe.

“I have absolutely no problems with Jakob,” Schleck explained. “When he lived in his old place we would train together if we had the possibility to do so but sometimes it’s difficult because we travel so much. Jakob moved because he needed a bigger place to live.”

“When Jakob left our team to try and fulfil his ambitions to be a team leader at the Tour de France I said it was the right move for him to make. He has a big engine and a lot of endurance in a three week race. The Tour de France podium may be out of his reach this year because the competition is so fierce but I definitely think he can finish in the top 10, maybe even in the top 5. There is no jealousy on my part whatsoever and I wish Jakob nothing but the best.”

Schleck was less impressed with parts of the Danish media, though.
 

“It’s typical of some parts of the Danish press to blow everything completely out of proportions. I don’t believe Jakob said those things.”

Cyclingquotes has spoken to Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet and the newspaper has forwarded an email containing Fuglsang's approval of the quotes published in the special issue. Thus it seems fair to conclude that the two riders have different views regarding the development of their friendship.