Toyota has 'probably lost' Kubica

Kubica is now expected to join Renault despite the Japanese manufacturer's last ditch attempt to secure his services, leaving Toyota to re-evaluate its options for next year.

Both Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli are out of contract, but despite the Italian finishing second in Japan, Howett suggests that he is still not top of the list.

"It looks like we have probably lost Robert, so we need to look next week and really see what we finally do," Howett told the BBC.

"[Regarding Trulli] we will have to wait and see. He did a great job, but we have to look at the total season and really reconsider. It is probably less likely, but I don't think we can exclude anything.

"It really depends which way the market moves in the next couple of weeks and if somebody else arrives and we consider them a better option, we have to take them.

"Jarno did a great job here today, but we still need a little bit more for the number one."

The team, who has long been a Kimi Raikkonen admirer and has made several attempts to sign him, is believed to be interesting in hiring the Finn.

Trulli insists that his strong form in Japan was not motivated by a desire to secure a new contract with Toyota, and he remains committed to continuing in F1 for a 14th season in 2010.

"To be honest I am not looking to keep my position at Toyota," said Trulli. "I am racing for Toyota and I am racing for myself."

Glock, who sat out the Japanese Grand Prix after an accident in qualifying, is in a stronger position to remain with the team, and Howett is certain that the German will be fit to race at Interlagos in two weeks.

"Glock will be fine for Brazil," said Howett, whose team is still in contention for third in the Constructors' Championship with two races to go.