But the British trio are aiming to be not too far behind, with 2018 world champion and Rio 2016 bronze medallist Vicky Holland also pushing for the top 10.
“[The standard of competition] has been absolutely fierce,” added Stanford.
“I really feel over the last four years, or since the last Olympics, the dynamic of women’s racing has changed. All the girls are much stronger and far more technically able.
“Being a strong runner, that’s really challenged me and I’ve had to adapt and try to grow as an athlete to meet the new demands of the sport.”
After years of injury problems, and having got a new coach in Joel Filliol last December, 30-year-old Stanford says she would be “delighted” to end the season fifth in the world.