Prost: I want Frentzen for 2002

Following his sacking from Jordan before the German Grand Prix, Frentzen signed up with Prost for the remainder of the 2001 season. But despite Frentzen's disappointing debut, where he retired from the Hungarian Grand Prix late on, Prost is hopeful Heinz-Harald can direct the team in the development of next year's car - then stick around to see the benefits.

Speaking exclusively to Autosport.com, Prost said: "We need a top driver in this team who will make everything easier and better. It's going to be difficult for him [Frentzen], because we know that we cannot develop the [2001] car too much.

"But his job is to do the best possible, and to push the team in a good direction, especially for the next car. Then I hope he will stay with us next year."

Prost's outfit has been in dire financial straits in recent months, failing to land major sponsors for the AP04, and it has yet to finalise an engine supplier for next year. However the 51-time Grand Prix winner insists that the situation is not as bad as it seems and hopes to announce engine and sponsorship deals soon.

"What we are doing now," said Prost, "considering the situation of the financial problems and changing drivers and all those things, I tell you it's not bad. If you understand exactly the business, how difficult it is with all the problems we've had, it's not too bad.

"I need another two or three weeks to confirm everything. I think there is a good solution coming."

Frentzen, meanwhile, is staying tight-lipped on his plans for 2002, saying: "I don't know about my future yet. I will drive these races for Prost and then we'll see.

For full Alain Prost Q&A, click here.