GRAND Prix star Maciej Janowski left the door open for a return to Pirates but warned his love for British speedway would not necessarily guarantee a comeback.

Janowski is a hugely popular figure at Wimborne Road having played a key role in Poole's run of three straight Elite League titles, the 24-year-old captaining the side to memorable crowns in 2014 and 2015.

However, the former Swindon charger elected to sit out British speedway this season in order to focus on commitments in his homeland and Sweden, as well as the Grand Prix series.

After Janowski's exit was confirmed during the winter, Pirates chief Matt Ford insisted he had "absolutely no doubt" the Wroclaw-born rider would return to Dorset.

And in an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, Janowski admitted he remained open-minded about a return to Poole if Ford's proposals for squad-based racing came to fruition.

Asked if he could see himself donning Pirates colours once more, Janowski said: "You never know, I wouldn't say 'no' and I wouldn't say 'yes' because you never know how your career will turn out.

"At the moment I am racing in Sweden instead. Everything has been good this year and it has given me enough time to rest. I've had some problems with an engine but that's the only problem and I hope we will fix it soon.

"That's the only plan for the moment but if (a squad system) happened then I would think about it. But let's wait for the plans and the rules for next year."

Quizzed further on whether a squad set-up would make him seriously consider returning, Janowski said: "Yes, of course. But if you are racing in the Grand Prix as well then I think it is a little bit too much.

"You never know, I will see after the season and think about the good things and bad things that I have done this year."

Janowski has never made any secret of his love for British speedway, describing his spell in the Elite League as "a good school" for his development.

And the Polish international, who maintains his friendship with Ford, admits he keeps a close eye on his old stomping ground.

"I spent five and a half years in England and I really enjoyed it," he added.

"I hope Poole can win the league again, I'm still a big fan of the club and I check the scores all the time.

"I met a lot of people in England and I really like to talk with them and see them when I can. I miss all those things but I cannot race there this year.

"I really like English speedway but at this point I have to think about not what I like, but what I need."