American Phil Nicoletti has unfinished business in Australia after a strong finish to the MX Nationals. Image: Alex Gobert.

American Phil Nicoletti has hinted that he wants to return to Australia after taking third in the Pro Lites category of the Rockstar Energy Drink MX Nationals this season.

Nicoletti rode his Monster Energy Kawasaki to third in the series after winning eight motos and the Coonabarabran overall, satisfied with his form in the second half of the season.

“I struggled at the beginning of the season,” Nicoletti reflected. “I think after Murray Bridge I was 11th in points and then we went on a real tear there – I won a lot of motos and got an overall.

“I worked my way up to third in the championship and I’m happy with it. You know I wasn’t really brought down here for third place but you know it is what it is and I’ll deal with it.”

Nicoletti returned home to New York this week, however he’s hoping to return next year on a 450 and also admits that he’d be willing to return to Australia for Super X this October.

“I’d like to come back here next year and ride a 450,” he added. “I’ll have to see with teams and that, I’d like to ride Supercross too this year. I like it down here, I like the people and it’s a good suit for me.”

Monster Energy Kawasaki has confirmed that Dean Ferris will step down to the Lites class for Super X, while Scotsman Billy Mackenzie will ride the team’s 2012 model KX450F in Pro Open.

After winning the title last year with Josh Hansen, it’s uncertain whether the American will return for Super X this year to defend the number one plate.