Team Sky principal Sir Dave Brailsford has described Geraint Thomas as "one of the world's most versatile riders" ahead of the start of this year's Tour de France.

Thomas is expected to play a key role in Chris Froome's bid to win a second crown, and Brailsford believes that he can become even more influential in future editions of the race.

Brailsford is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "Geraint is going from strength to strength. His opportunity to ride Grand Tours, try and lead the team at stage races is becoming clear - that's the way it's going to go.

"He's one of the world's most versatile riders. The challenge for Geraint is that he can get dragged in to helping out in all scenarios.

"The key for us as a team this year is to make sure we use his specific skills that we want to use in a certain area and give him the protection he deserves and give him the opportunity."

The 102nd staging of the race begins on Saturday.