Reigning Bennetts British Superbike king Josh Brookes has targeted a return to the podium this weekend after his Ducati squad made a setup discovery which could mean an end to the Australian's grip woes.

Brookes had found himself outside the top five all season until the seven-lap dash at Brands Hatch last Sunday which saw the Bringelly rider able to lap faster than he had all weekend and remain in the leading group.

“I definitely found an improvement in the final race at Brands Hatch. We made a step up and if it’s confirmed that discovery is what we think it is, then that would be a positive step in the right direction," said Brookes.

"We will find out at Thruxton if it has worked so all I can do is remain positive. Thruxton is my favourite track of the year so I’m hoping it will all come together, and we can start to get the results we know we are capable of.

"I’d normally be saying I want wins but for now I’m hoping we can get on the podium, so that’s what I’m aiming for.”