Rossi expects tough weekend in Japan

The Yamaha rider struggled with his shoulder in the previous race in Aragon, and is likely to face an even harder time at Motegi this weekend.

"Aragon was a hard weekend, both because we couldn't find the right setting for our M1 and because I had a lot of trouble with my shoulder," said Rossi in a team preview.

"The leg is now almost back to normal again - I have even started running - but the shoulder is a problem and we know now that this is not going to change until we have time to treat it properly.

"I have some great memories from Motegi, especially winning the championship in 2008, but I am expecting this weekend to be quite difficult on my body. We have a hard three weeks ahead but after this race two of my best tracks are coming up, and I am hoping for some good results. We will do our best and see what happens."

Team-mate Jorge Lorenzo said he is eager to return to the podium after missing out on a top-three finish in the previous race for the first time this year.

"Motegi is Yamaha's home and I always feel proud to ride there. Last Year I got my first victory at this track in MotoGP and it was one of the best moments of the season," he said.

"I like Motegi and I think it can be great for us also this season. The main goal is to get back on the podium and continue getting as many points as possible. We will try to be fast from Friday and start this run of three races as well as we can."