Oxfordshire's Bradley Smith is confident he can improve after finishing 12th overall after yesterday’s two free practice sessions at Sachsenring ahead of tomorrow’s German Grand Prix.

Smith, 22, found the tight and twisty Sachsenring layout, which is dominated by left-hand corners, a tough physical challenge for his recovering left wrist injury.

In cool and cloudy conditions, Smith was able to lap almost 0.7seconds faster in warmer weather for FP2 and climb from 15th to 11th in the rankings.

His impressive pace was just over 0.1 seconds away from the top-10 and on combined times he finished in an encouraging 12th.

Smith’s Monster Yamaha Tech 3 teammate, Cal Crutchlow, was sixth, despite suffering two crashes from which he escaped unscathed. “It was a positive day, “ said Smith.

“The Sachsenring is a very physical track, especially for the left side of the body, but it is not giving me too much of a problem.

“That is great because it proves all the hard work with my physiotherapist back in the UK has paid off with my wrist.

“It is not at 100 per cent, but it is much better than in Assen and I can ride with less discomfort and pain. “So I am sure we can improve today.

“We have a clear direction to improve the setting I have no doubt my crew will improve our package.

“I am feeling confident and excited.”