By Shane Stokes in Alto de La Cobertoria
Speaking of Unzue, he told Cyclingnews after stage 9 that things had worked out perfectly to plan. "When any team takes the gold jersey, they are very happy. It is especially rewarding because it comes at the end of a very difficult week. We had to contend with mountains, flat roads, sprints; we are happy.
"At this moment, I think that Vinokourov is the strongest. But there is a lot left in this Vuelta. We must be tranquil, take it day by day, as there are still two weeks to go," he said.
"Alejandro will have an important test in the time trial. It will be interesting. We know that Vinokourov is a good time trialist but Alejandro is improving all the time. We are happy with where we are."
