Stoner hopes to rebound at Motegi

Prior to Valentino Rossi's Estoril win, Stoner had taken three consecutive victories. He only managed third in Portugal as Michelin had its most competitive run since July, and his Ducati was hampered by a clutch problem.

But he is expected to be hard to beat at Motegi, where Ducati have won with Loris Capirossi for the past two seasons.

"We weren't so lucky in the race last Sunday but I think we should be able to come back strong at Motegi because we've got a great team and the bike and tyres are so strong at the moment," said Stoner.

"Ducati has taken pole position and the win the last two times we've been to Motegi, so it would be nice if we can do the same."

Stoner's championship lead was reduced to 76 points in Portugal, but with just four rounds remaining, he only needs to gather 25 points from the remaining Grands Prix to secure his first title - even if Rossi wins all of the races.

A single victory will therefore clinch the championship for Stoner, and the Australian said he will aim to keep winning rather than cruising for the necessary points.

"I really want to try and win a few more races before the end of the season. And if we focus on winning races, then the championship should come," said Stoner.

Team boss Livio Suppo warned not to read too much into Ducati's success at Motegi in the 990cc era, but is confident the team are in good shape for the Japanese race.

"On paper, Motegi is a very good circuit for us, but things are different with the 800s this year, so as usual we will have to wait until we get there to see how things will go," he said.

"Casey is in superb form, so I think he has the chance of a great weekend, and I hope that Loris can find the kind of pace that took him to victory at Motegi in 2005 and 2006."