PLYMOUTH Devils' boss Mike Bowden insists the city speedway team will be strengthened with the return of Gino Franchetti.

The popular Italian was initially cut from the Devils' starting seven for the 2012 season.

But Franchetti, who earned his own fan club last season with a series of stunning performances, has been recalled because of the departure of American Brent Werner.

Devils will not discuss details as to why Werner has decided not to ride for Plymouth this season.

But Herald Sport understands that a personality clash with another Devils rider was the cause of the American's decision to depart.

The loss of Werner, a highly experienced rider who was making a comeback to the sport, could have been a blow to Devils' hopes of success in their second season in the Premier League.

Their first season in UK speedway's second tier was slightly downbeat early on, the city club redeeming themselves with nine straight home wins at the end of the season.

Devils' chairman and promoter Bowden, however, is certain Franchetti's decision to rejoin Plymouth will be a good one for the team.

He said: "I don't want to discuss why Brent had to leave, except to say it was something totally beyond my control. It's certainly not something I wanted to happen with the season beginning next month, but we've been fortunate in that Gino is available.

"To be honest, he was very unlucky to miss out in the first place after what he did for us last season and he was first on the list if anything happened to any of the riders.

"He was very popular last season, improved immensely over the course of the year and even had his own fan club.

"I've already spoken to him about coming back and he is absolutely delighted."

Franchetti, who has been riding in Argentina, will be arriving in the UK within the next few weeks.

He will be unveiled, with the rest of the Devils 2012 squad at the press and practice day early in March.