I always went well in Malaysia in the 250cc class and I've finished on the podium there several times, so I think I can also do a good job in MotoGP. There are some flowing, technical sections where we have the potential to be strong.

“I'd love to pick up some good results over these final two races and finish my rookie season in a positive way. Unfortunately we've paid the price this year for not qualifying well but I'm still pleased with the pace we've found in practice at every round because we have been consistently fast.”

Gresini, meanwhile, admits he is pleased to see Nakano remaining well motivated, despite his impending exit from the team. As for de Angelis, Gresini is keen for him to gather more experience ahead of next season.

"Shinya comes here on the back of an excellent race – possibly his best of the season, regardless of the result. At Phillip Island he fought hard to the end and finished close to the lead riders. In Malaysia he'll be racing for the penultimate time with our team but despite that he remains highly motivated and I'm sure that once again he will show his great professionalism and work hard for another good result. I also think Sepang is well suited to his riding style.

“Alex hasn't enjoyed the best of times recently but we remain hopeful. He has already ridden the MotoGP bike at Sepang in the winter tests, so this is an important opportunity for him to improve his performance and gather experience for next season, which is now our main objective.”