Nick Heidfeld has admitted that he is finding it tough just being a test and reserve driver this year.

Heidfeld, who was recently appointed as chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), had hoped to get a seat with one of the leading teams this season, but in the end he was left standing.

Indeed he lost out to Jenson Button at McLaren and while he hung on for a race drive with Mercedes GP, that eventually went to Michael Schumacher, when the record-breaking multiple F1 world champion confirmed he would come out of retirement.

Speaking to German newspaper, FAZ, Heidfeld added though that he is convinced he will be back racing in 2011 and that joining Mercedes as the 'third' driver was his best option.

"It is unusual, especially when it is just before qualifying. Before [when I was racing] that was always the moment when you had the adrenaline rush and off you went. I really miss that. I found it really hard at the first grand prix in Bahrain," he noted.

"But I made this decision because it was the best choice for me. I had other options, but now I am in the team that are double world champions. Naturally I would rather be in the car and competing. However I am sure will be back racing in 2011."

source-www.crash.net