Alejandro Valverde will be chasing a fourth straight La Flèche Wallonne victory ©Getty Images

Alejandro Valverde will seek to continue his superb start to the year by claiming a fourth successive victory at tomorrow's La Flèche Wallonne classic in Belgium.

The Spaniard is already the record winner at the one-day event after triumphing in 2006 as well as 2014, 2015 and 2016.

The 204.5 kilometres race, beginning in Binche, contains a series of short but very steep climbs, including the iconic Mur de Huy.

It therefore suits puncheurs - riders able to cope with short sharp climbs - such as Valverde.

The 36-year-old Movistar rider is already showing some of the best form of his career, having already won the Tours of Andalucía, Catalonia and Basque Country this season. 

Ireland's Quick-Step rider Dan Martin is another challenger on a course which should suit his style.

Team Sky have also entered a strong team led by Spaniard Sergio Henao and Poland's Michal Kwiatkowski.

The Pole will be looking to improve upon second place at the Amstel Gold Race on Sunday (April 16).

Orica-Scott's Michael Albasini is another 36-year-old in good form.

The Swiss rider finished third at the Gold Race and has enjoyed six career top 10 finishes at La Flèche Wallonne.

Amstel winner Philippe Gilbert is absent but female counterpart Anna van der Breggan of The Netherlands will be favourite for the women's race.

After a storming home win last week, the two-time defending champion will lead a formidable Boels-Dolmans team that also includes Elizabeth Deignan of Britain.

Kasia Niewiadoma of Poland and WM3 Pro Cycling will be another strong contender over the 120km course.