NEIL Hodgson today vowed to come back even stronger after shattering his kneecap in a freak accident.

The 22-year-old Burnley bike ace crashed during motocross training last week and is out of Sunday's world superbikes fifth round at Monza.

Two screws were inserted to hold togeher the kneecap - split in half by the accident.

The wound also required 17 stitches.

But all tendons, ligaments and muscles escaped damage which doctors say will speed up his recovery.

"I'm hoping to return the round after Monza, in Laguna Seca next month - stronger than ever," said Hodgson.

"Right now it's very, very painful but I'm seeing the physio for two hours every day and should begin light work around the knee in the next two or three weeks.

"This injury couldn't have happened at a worse time for me.

"In felt like I was getting somewhere and my confidence was there. It's just one of those things - it could have happened walking down the stairs."

Hodgson's motocross bike skidded as he approached a jump on the Doncaster track where rain had left the surface slippery.

He went sideways at the jump and the bike turned even more through the air.

As he came down his knee landed on a rock, causing the break.

"It's very disappointing for Neil after a good race in Hockenheim," said Ducati team manager Virginio Ferrari, who won't replace Hodgson this weekend at Monza with a young, up-and-coming rider.

"We hope he can ride again in Laguna Seca but it is important that he feels well before returning."

Hodgson will be anxious to complete his rehabilitation in time for the US round.

It was at Laguna Seca last year that he recorded his best finish - third - in world superbikes.

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