Montgomery was one of the star performers at the 2010 Winter Olympics as he slided to victory. 

But, after a difficult period since in which he has been competing on the second tier Intercontinental Series after not being selected for the Canadian World Cup team, considerable improvements are required if he is to qualify for the final spot.

In the first round of selections John Fairbairn and Eric Neilson were chosen after being ranked sixth and ninth respectably in the World Cup Series so far.

Overall favourite, and winner for each of the last three seasons, is Latvian Martin Dukurs, the runner-up behind Montgomery in Vancouver who has since gone on to dominate the men's event.

Since winning silver behind Montgomery in Vancouver, Latvia's Martin Dukurs has taken the sport to new levels with three consecutive overall World Cup victories ©Getty Images


Montgomery meanwhile will be battling with Dave Greszczyszyn for the third slot in the Canadian team.

With the deciding factor being which athlete has earned the most points from races, Greszczyszyn has the advantage of being on the World Cup team and currently has a 32 point lead over Montgomery, although neither athlete is guaranteed selection.

The 34-year-old Montgomery admitted that there is only a small chance he could make the team to defend his title, and may retire if he does not qualify.

"Unfortunately for me, I'm fighting an uphill battle in that regard," he said.

"I would guess the way things have gone it would be nothing short of winning the four races before that deadline."

However, a message on twitter which read "I ain't done yet" suggested that Montgomery has not yet totally given up hope of qualification.

Reigning World Championship bronze medal winner Sarah Reid and Turin 2006 bronze medal winner Mellisa Hollingsworth have been named in the first round of selections for the Canadian women's team.