Resurgent Lorenzo aims for top five

The Yamaha rider, who started his rookie season with three straight poles and a maiden win in just his third MotoGP start, has had a torrid time in recent months.

A series of heavy crashes and injuries have affected his confidence, and he has also been held back by Michelin's difficulties.

Lorenzo's third place on the Misano grid is his first front row start since his string of early poles, and he has not finished on the podium since Le Mans in June.

The Spaniard, who qualified last at Brno a fortnight ago when Michelin reached its nadir, said the improved competitiveness of his tyres was the major factor in his resurgence, allowing him to ride with confidence again.

"Here at this track we struggle much less than at Brno and Laguna Seca," Lorenzo said.

"Michelin are more competitive and now I'm riding with a flow again. I've returned to my right riding style, and the tyres are giving me the confidence I need."

But despite his improved form, Lorenzo is expecting a tough race - especially given the speed of his fellow front row starters Casey Stoner and Valentino Rossi.

"Stoner and Valentino are going very fast, especially Stoner," said Lorenzo. "Tomorrow, to stay with Stoner will be so difficult. But our goal is not to win, it's to finish in the top five."