Schumacher motivated, not disappointed, by 'unlucky' start to 2012 F1 season

While team-mate Nico Rosberg has won a race and scored 41 points in five races, Schumacher counts a couple of tenth places as his best results and has just two points.

The seven-time champion says he is not downbeat about the situation though, and is pleased to have seen Mercedes take a big step towards the front this year.

"I think we have quite a good car honestly," said Schumacher ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix. "From last year we have made a huge step forward and proven we are able to win races. I have been on the unlucky side.

"We are a team, one big family, and we win and lose together. I don't feel disappointed at all. If anything, the other way around: motivated because of how much progress we have made and I can see the future progress we can make and that is much more in our focus."

Schumacher's chances of a good result in Monaco have already been hit by a five-place grid penalty for having caused an accident with Bruno Senna in Spain.

The German is aware that things will be hard for him in the race, but he is looking forward to the excitement to fighting back.

"Basically I think we are going to be in a position to be competitive as a general track profile," he said. "It will suit us. Let's see from where I manage to qualify and start the race what can be done. It is certainly not ideal, it is what it is, but I will have some excitement certainly."