MATTHEW Langridge, a two-time medallist at the Olympic Games, has been picked for Great Britain’s men’s eight at next month’s regatta in Rio.

The Northwich-born rower, confirmed as part of a 12-man sweep line-up by Team GB selectors last month, now knows in which boat he will race in Brazil.

“It’s great to be officially named,” he said.

“I’m very confident that this group of guys have what it takes to win, and we intend to be in the best possible shape by the time the competition starts.”

The men’s eight have endured a mixed campaign, finishing third at the European Championships and then fourth in a World Cup regatta at Lucerne shortly afterwards.

They improved significantly in their most recent outing, pressing Olympic champions Germany all the way to the line in the final before claiming silver at Poznan.

Langridge, who brought back a silver medal from Beijing in 2008 before securing bronze at London, sits in a boat bristling with Olympic medallists.

Andrew T Hodge and Pete Reed have twice won gold in the men’s four, while Tom Ransley and cox Phelan Hill were in the eight with Langridge four years ago.

Will Satch was third in the men’s pair at the same event.

Matt Gotrel, Paul Bennett and Scott Durant will make their Olympic debut in Rio.

Great Britain has finished first in the boat class at each of the past three world championships, beating Germany each time.

Meanwhile Netherlands, third at last year’s edition, will be contenders too after winning in style at Lucerne last month.

“The men’s eight showed strong form at the final World Cup regatta,” said Sir David Tanner, performance direct for GB Rowing.

“The put the Olympic champions under pressure, and are part of what I think is one of our strongest men’s sweep squads to date.”