O'Neill to return with Tech-Speed

The 30-year-old returned to the series full-time with the team in 2009 after a three-year absence. He will race one of two Honda Integra-Rs to be run by Marvin Humphries' outfit.

"I'm made up about it," O'Neill told AUTOSPORT. "It's the first time in ages that I've known this far ahead of the season what my plans are.

"It's a great championship and I'm really excited to be staying with Tech-Speed. I absolutely love the team and I think we exceeded our expectations a bit with our pace last year."

The high point of 2009 for O'Neill, who finished 12th in the championship, was a podium finish at Snetterton - Tech-Speed's first for five years. He believes he can add to his two BTCC victories this year, despite the age of the car.

"Marvin and the team have made certain tweaks to the car over the winter and, despite the fact that I haven't driven it since last season, I think it could be a cracking season.

"I'm a better driver now than I used to be. I feel like I've really matured in my driving and my attitude over the past year, so I'm feeling confident.

"Getting on the podium more regularly is the aim and I'm sure we can do it. A win? You never know. I nearly got a podium at Thruxton last year, having only done five laps in the car before the weekend, and the season starts there this year..."

O'Neill's team-mate is yet to be named. He was paired with Martyn Bell last year.