Herbert: I'm glad Eddie's not world champ

The European Grand Prix winner, who will drive alongside the Ulsterman at Jaguar next season, believes that his own position in the team would have been weakened if Irvine had arrived as the title winner.

'I definitely didn't want him to come as world champion because it would have made things more difficult,' said Herbert.

'It was a shame for him that he didn't take the title at Suzuka, because he did such a good job this year, but it's better that he won't have the number one on his car in 2000.'

Herbert also revealed that he is prepared for the challenge of racing alongside Irvine - and for any psychological manoeuvres that the former Ferrari driver may be planning.

'Eddie's okay. He can be a difficult person, but you need to take him as he is,' said Herbert.

'If he starts playing mind-games then I will just ignore him. It's nice for me because I've been with the team for a year now and I know all the people there.

'I think next year will be good for the Jaguar team. With Gary Anderson (the designer), it will be his car this time, and with Eddie, he can maybe tell us a few things about Ferrari which can take us on even further.'