Toseland thanks fans for support in troubled testing season

Monster Yamaha Tech3 rider James Toseland is resting up after his Jerez highside – from which he escaped with only a sprained ankle- and has used his recuperation time to send out a ‘thank you’ message to his army of fans.

The Briton acknowledged the support of those behind him in a message posted on his official website, admitting that he has not had the most enjoyable of preseasons.

"There's no doubt that the recent testing programme has been tough," wrote Toseland. "I'm still working hard to understand the limit of the new tyres. However, I have been extremely lucky to escape serious injury at both Sepang and Jerez. For that reason, I must thank my leathers company BKS because it is down to them that I'll be lining up on the grid for the first race of the season in Qatar.”

Ahead of what many see as being a make-or-break year for the former superbike champion, he also reiterated his devotion to MotoGP success in 2009.

"As we all know, the race is where results really count and I am completely focused on achieving success in my second year in MotoGP. I'm extremely lucky to have such a loyal fan base and I want to succeed for you as much as for myself. So, thank you for all of the support that I've received so far. I appreciate it and am working hard to prove myself at the top tier of motorcycling.”

Toseland’s Team Principal, Herve Poncharal, stated last week that he was not expecting his charge to battle for the victory at next weekend’s Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar, with the goal being to ‘pick up points’ and prepare for round two.