POOLE-born racer Kyle Newman believes he is ready to launch a title bid in the British Under-21 Final.

The Pirates asset says he is fully recovered from his leg injury of last season and is setting his sights on becoming the country’s leading young star at Monmore Green this evening (7.45pm).

Dorset-based Newman is back in the saddle after working hard to return from his horror crash at Newcastle, which left him with a severed femoral artery in his thigh, towards the end of the 2011 campaign.

Looking ahead to the British showdown in the West Midlands, the 20-year-old told the Daily Echo: “I think I am in a relatively good position to challenge for the title this year. I am feeling confident in myself.

“There is some very strong opposition with the likes of Richie Worrall and Jason Garrity – Worrall is flying at the moment and there are a lot of others.

“But I am feeling good so I am going to go in with high hopes and aim for the top spot.”

Newman added: “I am still pushing for 100 per cent fitness. There is always room for improvement and I am always looking to get that little bit extra out of myself.

“I am working hard – on myself and my bikes – and there are no worries with the injury. I haven’t had a problem with it so I am really looking forward to tonight.”

Newman, who played an occasional role for boyhood club Pirates last season, says his confidence has been boosted by the support he still receives from the people of Poole.

And Pirates promoter Matt Ford is hoping Newman can enjoy some better luck.

Ford said: “Fingers crossed, he can have some good fortune for a change and pick his career back up where it was a year ago.”

Another Pirates asset, Kyle Howarth, will be among Newman’s rivals in the under-21 showpiece.

Ford added: “Kyle Howarth has been in outstanding form. He is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the event. He has got a bright future ahead of him.”