The chances of Mark Cavendish winning next month's World Championship road race have been given a boost, with Great Britain moving up the latest cycling standings.

Every nation in the top ten is allowed up to nine riders at the event in Copenhagen, and Britain has leapfrogged the United States and Holland to claim seventh place in the UCI rankings.

It's being seen as Cav's best chance to win the world road title since he turned professional in 2007.

Having more GB riders in the field will help him, but individuals also need to have a ranking to be part of the team.

The previous list showed five had made the grade, namely Cav, Bradley Wiggins, Ben Swift, David Miller and Geraint Thomas.

However, following the recent Tour of Poland, Stephen Cummings, Adam Blythe and fellow Manx rider Peter Kennaugh have also achieved the required status.

The 'Manx Missile' is expected to lead the GB team over what is said to be a relatively flat course.