New Manor racing director Dave Ryan has backed McLaren to return to the front of the gird within the new few years.

The British team suffered a humbling 2015 as they finished ninth in the constructors’ standings, and first impressions suggest their 2016 car is not much better.

However, Ryan – who worked there for 34 years before being sacked after lying at the 2009 Australian Grand Prix – is confident they will be back.

"Let's be honest, McLaren is a bit of a sleeping giant at the moment," he said.

"They haven't had a good few years, and last year was particularly difficult I would say, but they've the potential to get it right.

"They're hurting, but if they get it right they will be right back up at the sharp end. They've a huge number of very clever people.

"It's a question of when, not if."

The new season gets underway in Australia next month.


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