What's your mood like on the eve of this deciding race?

I am focused and concentrated on what I have to do. So far I've been holding back and riding consistently. Now I have to push a lot harder to beat Carl and Aaron, the only two riders I have in mind.

How have you prepared mentally and phisically for Sugo?

I've been out training a lot with Virginio Ferrari, which has helped me physically as well as improved my concentration. Mental training is as big a part of things as physical training and I feel very relaxed and confident about the race.

Would you have preferred the decider to have been at a different circuit?

Yes, but only because of the 'wild-card' riders. They are not involved in the championship race and that can sometimes change things. As for the track itself, not really, a track is a track …

Did events at Assen harm or help your title chances?

It's irrelevant now because it's all down to the last two races. I did the best I could do at Assen and my approach is the same this weekend. There is no next race …

You've already won here. Is that an advantage or a disadvantage?

It's hard to say. Carl has also won here, whereas Aaron hasn't so maybe Carl will be harder to beat. I've been in this situation before so I know what I have to do, but on the other hand, I wasn't around last year, whereas the other two were …

What modifications have Ducati made to the bike here at Sugo?

The bike is exactly the same. It didn't feel strong in Free Practice this morning, but my time was good, whereas Aaron, who has a new engine, wasn't that far in front of me.

What's your weekend strategy going to be?

Play it as it comes. I aim to get the bike set up and be there for the race. Not being there means you don't have a chance …