Capirossi returns for final Phillip Island appearance

Loris Capirossi, who made his first Phillip Island appearance in 1990, will return for his final Australian Grand Prix this weekend.

The Italian, who is to retire at the end of 2011, was forced to miss the recent Japanese Grand Prix after dislocating his right shoulder at Aragon - the same shoulder that he injured in a fall at Assen in June.

Capirossi knows he will be far from fully fit for the final three rounds, but is determined to get back out on his Pramac Ducati at a track he loves.

"I'm happy to be back at this circuit," said Capirossi. "In the past I've won here three times, earning many podium finishes. I'll be back there for the last time, I hope to do well, even though my shoulder still causes many problems, despite the medical care in recent days."

Capirossi's best finish this season is ninth at Catalunya.