Mark Cavendish has a waspish reputation, but tells Anna Kessel he's more sinned against than sinning.

"You came here today with the perception that I was an arsehole," says Mark Cavendish, fixing an intense look.  It is a statement more than a question.  THe celebrated winner of 10 Tour de France stages has come to expect bad press, his defense mechanisms ready at the slightest sign of trouble.

Actually his assumption is wrong.  He is too personable ever to be described as an "arsehole."  True, he is outspoken, but not arrogant and brutish, rather mischievous and boyish, a young buck who enjoys running off his mouth.

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