Ogier: Podium will ease pressure

There were high hopes for the reigning Junior series champion when he joined the Citroen Junior team for 2009, especially as he had led the Rally GB on his debut in 2008, but a series of early errors masked his potential this year.

He got his season on course in Greece last weekend, though, by taking a strong second place behind Ford's Mikko Hirvonen. The result was the first podium for a non-works Citroen C4, and comfortably beat Ogier's previous career best of sixth in Ireland.

"We did a bad start to the season and some mistakes," the Frenchman admitted. "It's difficult to come here and fight with the guys who have been here a lot of seasons, but now it's a good feeling in the team."

"Sure, it will be more easy to start in Poland. The pressure will be lower than here."

Ogier's co-driver Julien Ingrassia said it was inevitable that the 25-year-old would have a mixed first full season at WRC level and should be allowed some inconsistency.

"You know we have to get experience," said Ingrassia. "All the mistakes in the season and all the good things, this is the normal way to climb the WRC steps. We have a long way to go, but we are confident and we are here."

The Frenchman's initial deal with Citroen Junior was just for six rallies, but it was extended for first the Acropolis, and then the forthcoming Poland event. Although his future beyond that is uncertain, Ogier said he was not thinking about the rest of the season yet.

"I will be more confident in Poland - I will forget the other events," he said.