Singapore F1 GP: Jenson Button expected better from McLaren-Honda

Fernando Alonso put his Honda-powered McLaren eighth in FP2, less than a second off the pace set by Red Bull's Daniil Kvyat, while Button - whose engine was running in a detuned state compared to Alonso's - was 14th.

While Button expects both cars to be in the hunt for a top 10 qualifying result, he conceded McLaren was hoping to be slightly stronger compared to some of the other midfield teams.

"I don't think we're quite as quick as we'd hoped, but we'll see over the weekend where we are," said Button.

"It's definitely possible to get into the top 10, which has got to be our aim.

"There are bigger gaps than we expected - Force India are much quicker than us, and Williams are quicker on longer runs which is surprising.

"We'll do our best and see where we stand. I'm looking forward to it - it's much more exciting than the last two races and at least we're in a fight."

Button was shocked at the advantage Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes have over the rest of the field, but Alonso believes McLaren can be in the thick of the battle behind those cars.

"After the first three teams there is a group of cars and I think we are in that," said Alonso.

"From seventh to 14th, there will be three or four tenths I guess, tomorrow.

"We could be one of the first or one of the last, it depends on how we prepare.

"It's going to be tight and we will have the chance to be in Q3, I want to think that's possible.

"But the important thing is to get some points on Sunday and I think we are in a position to do so."