BELLE Vue CEO Mark Lemon believes Ben Cook has a real opportunity to make an early impression with the club, describing him as "one to watch" this season.

Cook has joined the Aces for his second season in the Premiership after racing for Peterborough last year, achieving a highly creditable 6.00 average.

He will combine those duties by again riding for Poole Pirates, captaining the Championship outfit following the departure of former skipper Steve Worrall.

The Australian enjoyed a positive winter back home, receiving the Riders’ Rider of the Year award, and his first appearance at the National Speedway Stadium since signing for Belle Vue will come in the Peter Craven Memorial on March 18.

Lemon said: “He’s guested for us a few times but now he’s a home rider I think he will really come into his own and could be something of a dark horse for the ATPI Aces.

“I could say the same about the Peter Craven Memorial. Every year there’s the out-and-out favourites, but we’ve seen plenty of dark horses spring up and shock us all with their efforts.

“Ben had a fantastic run in Australia and was recognised for his great improvement. He’s definitely one to watch, not just in this event but for the season as well.”