Nicolas Roche on Team Sky roster for Vuelta a Espana

Ireland's Nicolas Roche is among the Chris Froome led Sky team selected for the Vuelta a Espana which begins this Saturday.

Roche joins the recent Tour de France winner Froome as well as Sergio Henao, Mikel Nieve, Vasil Kiryienka, Christian Knees, Ian Boswell, Salvatore Puccio, and Geraint Thomas on the nine-man Team Sky roster.

Two years ago the 31-year-old finished second in the Spanish event, bettering a sixth place finish in 2010. This will be his first year competing in the race for Team Sky, having raced for Team Saxo-Tinkoff in the past two years.

Sky Team principal Dave Brailsford said: "It's been an unforgettable summer for us after winning the Tour de France for the third time, but it's important to move on quickly, realign our goals and focus on the new challenges ahead.

“We’ve selected a strong squad for the Vuelta that has the right blend of talent and experience to support Chris Froome through the tough three weeks ahead.”

While Froome added: “It will certainly be a very competitive race given the strong field – which will be great for the fans to watch.

“I have great memories from this race so I’m pleased to be back. I’ve had a good rest after the Tour and now I’m ready for my next challenge.

“The competition will be tough and this is bike racing so anything can happen, but we have an excellent team and we’re ready to get the race started.”