Cyclingheroes: Last year you rode for German team Akud. What progamme did you race in 2007?

Dominik Roels: Akud was a continental team for U23 riders. We concentrated on the race series of the German Bundesliga. I also started at a few pro races and I raced with the German U23 national team. With Akud I rode the Cologne Classic and the 3 Länder tour.

Cyclingheroes: What are your strengths?

Dominik Roels: My strong points are my time trial and stage races. Of course I will have to see how things will develop. Surely its another level with the pro's. On a pro level I have to learn and will have to define my strengths again. But I see myself as a stage racer and want to improve myself.

Cyclingheroes: Is it a big step between riding with a continental team or with a Pro-Tour team like Milram?

Dominik Roels: As its all very new that's difficult to say. I was at the training camp with the team but I did not race with the team yet. They want to build me up slowly and carefully. Of course I rode a few races on a high level with Akud so I know I can handle those races and won't have major problems. In general there is more pressure at Milram, you can't hide yourself... Its the premier league. Surely it won't be easy. I do have the necessary respect but I am not afraid.

Cyclingheroes: Maybe its a bit early but can you tell us what role you will have in the team?

Dominik Roels: At first I will have to to take up a subordinate role. We have experienced riders, top riders. But I also have the ambition to get good results at the smaller German stage races and seek my chances at a stage. When i feel good I want to go for it. But most of the time I will work for the team, for our captain.

Cyclingheroes: Do you already know your 2008 programme?

Dominik Roels: I will start my season in South-Africa and after that I will race the Tour of Algarve [Portugal]. Then I will be in Belgium for a week with races like Het Volk. Of course I will also race the Cologne Classic - that's a very special race for me. Cologne is my hometown.