Sharp Armstrong roars into contention

By Julien Pretot

LA GRANDE MOTTE, France (Reuters) - Seven-times champion Lance Armstrong proved his Tour de France credentials once again when he climbed to third overall following a spectacular third stage on Monday.

Briton Mark Cavendish snatched the stage victory after 196.5 kms (122 miles) from Marseille to La Grande Motte but the day's big winner was Armstrong, the only favorite who was not caught out by a sharp break from Team Columbia.

Swiss Fabian Cancellara of the Saxo Bank team retained the overall leader's yellow jersey, finishing ahead of German Tony Martin and American Armstrong by 33 and 40 seconds respectively.

Hot favorite Alberto Contador, who was trapped after Team Columbia's move, dropped to fourth overall.

Spaniard Contador, named Astana's team leader ahead of Armstrong, slipped 19 seconds behind the 37-year-old Texan.

"I am not ok with that theory saying there can be only one team leader," said Armstrong.

"I have won seven Tours de France, I will have to be counted in."

Astana sports director Alain Gallopin said there would not be any problems within the team even though Armstrong has somehow upset the hierarchy.

"There are no troubles at all in our team, it's even the contrary," he said.

"If there had been Armstrong and (Saxo Bank's) Andy Schleck up front, that would have been a problem.

"There will be no problem tonight or tomorrow."

NEVER SAY NEVER

Astana will ride a team time-trial on Tuesday and should they smash the competition, Armstrong could snatch the yellow jersey.

"Never say never," the American said.

The peloton split into two around 40 kms from the finish after a sudden burst of acceleration by Team Columbia in strong crosswinds which surprised nearly all the favorites.