Loeb calls for Sordo's help

The reigning world champion is nine points adrift of the Ford driver at the halfway stage of the season, and he has called for Sordo to help take points away from Gronholm as much as possible.

"Every rally will be a test and it will be important not to make any mistakes, but we are going to need Dani to help us," Loeb was quoted as saying by Spanish newspaper AS.

"Especially in the four asphalt rallies left, where it will be important to try and take a one-two to reduce the gap as much as possible."

Loeb believes that Sordo will be capable of competing at the front in the second half of the season, as he has seen the Spaniard improve up close throughout this season.

"He is very good on asphalt and he is improving on gravel," he added. "He is taking his time to learn, but he has improved a lot since the start of the year."

Loeb also admitted that he will have to take more risks than he has on the way to his previous titles, as he will have to chase down the championship leader rather than defend a points advantage.

"It's going to be different from past years, because I will have to take more risks to be able to win the title," he said.

"But there is still half the year left and the problems that we've had can also hit Ford during the second half of the season."