THE plaudits have rolled in for Mark Cavendish in 2009 – now is the Manxman’s opportunity to cement his billing as Britain’s greatest road racer in the Tour de France.

Alberto Contador is the favourite for overall victory in the 96th edition of cycling’s showpiece event, but Cavendish is widely anticipated to triumph in the points competition for the green jersey.

Two months into his 25th year, Cavendish enters his third Tour de France – in his third season as a professional – equal with Chris Boardman as Britain’s most successful road racer, with 41 victories.

The Team Columbia-HTC sprinter has confounded many doubters, most notably at the 298-kilometres Milan- San Remo in March, when he became only the second Briton to win a classic behind Tom Simpson, and is now described by many of cycling’s luminaries as ‘‘unbeatable’’ on a flat finish.

Sean Kelly, who won the points jersey at four Tours de France, said: ‘‘He’s unbeatable in the big sprints.’’ David Millar, who will begin his eighth Tour de France today in Monaco, added: ‘‘If he makes it to Paris, it’s pretty much impossible to beat him (in the points competition).’’ Kelly believes Cavendish has all the credentials to end the 25-year wait for glory.

‘‘He can knock up a lot in the flatter stages and in the mountains I think he can get through,’’ added Kelly.