Britain’s Cal Crutchlow goes into this weekend’s Argentine MotoGP with a track knowledge deficit compared to his opposition as he had to sit out last year’s race after crashing at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas.

Crutchlow had to watch the race from his sofa with a nasty hand injury and until he rolls down pitlane tomorrow, has only done a handful of laps at the track during a test in 2013 on the Monster Yamaha.

“Even though I watched it last year at home, I think we can make some good first free practices as I need to familarise with the track because we didn’t race here last year,” said Crutchlow, speaking at the track.

“Sure we are at a disadvantage because when we tested there really was no grip, four or five laps with the tyre and they were finished. It is good that I know where the track goes but it will be a difficult weekend but I am definitely looking forward to it.

“It’s been a poor start to the season, seventh place doesn’t reflect where we should be. The last race was a disappointment, we had some great practices and we were set to be in that podium battle. We salvaged some points but we need to challenge here as best as possible.”