Italy's Paolo Bettini will take part in Saturday's Milan-San Remo race after recovering from the injuries that forced him to retire from the Tirreno-Adriatico.

"I'm feeling better day after day," said Bettini, who injured his right knee and back in a high-speed crash during last Friday's third stage. He initially seemed unlikely to recover for Milan-San Remo but massage and light training has eased the pain and he is determined to be at the start of the 294-km race. Bettini will share the leadership of the Quick Step team at Milan-San Remo with world champion Tom Boonen, of Belgium. The 31-year-old Tuscan won the prestigious Italian race in 2003.

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