Grapevine: Herbert Considered for Minardi Ride

European Minardi boss Paul Stoddart has expressed an interest in Johnny Herbert as his second driver, but said however that the move is unlikely to happen.

Stoddart said no contact had been made with former Jaguar driver and added that the prospects of Herbert linking up with Fernando Alonso is only an outside chance.

"If he gave me a phone call, he'd be on the list," said Stoddart.

There are five drivers competing for the final spot on the Formula One grid for this year, and it is a varied selection that Stoddardt must choose from.

He added: "We have a mix of well known experienced drivers, and one who I would think is a young charger.

"There are two who have not yet been in F1 but are experienced in other categories, two ex-F1 drivers, and one rising star - but he might not get a superlicence."

The team signed 19-year-old Alonso as their first driver, so it is not expected to go for another young charger.

They will make the decision by Friday, and plan to have the selected driver in the new car at its shakedown in Italy next on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.