CYCLING

JUNE 27 2007 10:41h

Improved Evans Can Win Tour de France-Team Manager

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Australian Cadel Evans has what it takes to win this year's Tour de France, his team manager said on Wednesday.

Australian Cadel Evans has what it takes to win this year's Tour de France, his team manager said on Wednesday.

"He is targeting a podium finish," Predictor-Lotto manager Hendrick Redant told the Tour's Web site (www.letour.fr).

"The strategy is the same as last year's, the only thing is that Cadel has improved, he has more experience," he added.

The 30-year-old finished last year's Tour in fifth place.

In the mountains, he will be able to rely on American Chris Horner and on Belgian Mario Aerts.

The Tour de France starts from London on July 7 and ends in Paris on July 29.