British Cycling chief David Brailsford insists David Millar will bounce back from the disappointment of Sunday’s UCI Road World Championships.

Millar arrived in Mendrisio, Switzerland in fine form having won the penultimate stage of the Tour of Spain.

But the 32-year-old, leading Great Britain’s nine-strong team in the gruelling 262km men’s road race, was forced to retire after injuring his knee.

"Dave was unlucky and couldn’t continue after an early crash,” said Brailsford. “That was really unfortunate because the guys were really doing a good job.

"The success from today was to ride as a team. That was the main goal because it's the first time we've had nine riders.

“That's something we can take forward to Melbourne next year and Copenhagen in 2011.

“They’re both flatter courses so it’s looking good to compete for that World Championship jersey in the coming years.”