Rider blog: Danny van Poppel

DVP

On the eve of his Team Sky debut the Dutchman writes about his frustrating injury problems and getting back out on the road.

Hi everyone. It has been a long time coming, but on Wednesday I will race in Team Sky colours for the very first time at Nokere Koerse.

Sadly I picked up a knee injury at the start of the year and that has kept me out of action until now. I was really disappointed because I was ready for the early races, I felt in really good shape, and was keen to impress having moved to a new team.

There were races where I knew I'd have the chance to show what I could do, so that made it extra tough to take. My first few weeks off the bike were really difficult but I had to focus on my recovery. When I was able to start training again I was so happy, although I still found it hard watching the races I was missing on TV!

I feel ready now. I've had some good weeks on the bike and done a lot of good training.

It has taken me so long to come back because my injury was a tough one. My knee was really tight and every time I rode it flared up. Now that it's OK, my first goal is to finish a race without any pain.

I don't really have any firm plans in place for the rest of the season yet. I really want to prove myself in the Classics, but obviously now I will have to wait another year to do that. Hopefully I will get some chances over the coming months though - we will see. For now, it's just important for me to get my form back.

Before my injury I had worked really hard with the team and I was impressed with how professional the set up is - but certainly not surprised. Every small detail is looked at and catered for here. I have done a lot more work than in previous years, and a lot more specific training too. I think I have made a big step and hope that I can prove that.

What did surprise me is how friendly everyone is here. You hear the stereotype - 'Team Sky is a machine, it's no fun', but that's simply not true. I make more jokes with the guys here than I have in other teams. I knew Wout Poels before I joined, and a few of the other guys, and they've all helped me to settle in, but I think I would have been fine anyway. Everyone is very nice.

And now it's time to race. I am so happy that I can finally start the season and I can't wait to pull on my Team Sky jersey for the first time. Wish me luck!