NEIL Hodgson has learned his lesson about predicting his races.

The Burnley ace rides at Brands Hatch this weekend as a wild card entry in European round of the World Superbikes.

On his last appearance in the World Championships at Donington in May, the British Superbike leader surprised everyone by winning one race and finishing third in the other.

But he's not about to make wild predicitions about how he will do at the weekend.

"I used to say things like I would 'kick ass' and stuff but then it would all go wrong," said the 26-year-old.

"I've learned my lesson about speaking out because anything can happen in the race.

"I think I can win it, you have to think that. But other reasons can prevent this. Sometimes it's just about luck on the day.

"But I've got to say after that win at Donington, I feel a lot more confident now."

Neil carries the hopes of up to 120,000 motorcycle fans in Sunday's two 25-lap races as Blackburn's four times World Champion Carl Fogarty is still out injured.

But Neil says he will not be affected by the pressure.

"I don't feel the pressure going into this race like I do the British championships, because I'm leading the title chase in that and I'm not in with a shout in the world championship," he said.

"It's a great chance to show my talent and do well for my team."

There are just six races left of the British Superbike season with Neil currently leading the way after a great victory last time out at Oulton Park where he came from the back of the field to win one of the races. "The championship is going really well. I'm leading the way now and I feel everything is going to plan.

"My all-round performance is better. I've got a fitness trainer Frank and he's working with me. I'm more confident and I've got more experience. I've got the best of everything.

"And I have a really good team in Ducati. They are important and everything seems to connect."

Hodgson is already virtually sure he'll be back on the world stage next season with his Ducati team -- and confident he can realise his potential there.

"Ducati have put a budget forward and it's 90 per cent sure that I will be in the World Championships next year.

"I've been there and done it before, so I'm not worried. I'm not bothered about learning new tracks. It is a natural progression. I've been riding bikes since I was five years old and I think this is now the best I feel."

He currently lives in the Isle of Man with his girlfriend, Kathyrn, originally from Blacko, who works for Virgin Airlines.

"I needed a base and the Isle of Man is perfect. I came over to watch the TT Races here when I was younger and fell in love with the place," explained Neil.

"I came over again about two years ago and I've settled here. It is a lovely place, there is little crime, you can leave your doors open and it's nice and quiet.

"But saying that I miss Burnley especially recently with Burnley Football Club coming over. I was walking round the island seeing all these Claret and Blue shirts and it was like being at home. It was great to see them.

"I would like to move back home -- and it would be nice to do it as a World Champion."

Hodgson will be joined by fellow wild card entrants Chris Walker, of the Clarion National Tyres Suzuki team, who is his main rival, and Reve Red Bull Ducati team-mates James Haydon and John Reynolds at Brands Hatch.