Schumacher admits to worries over fitness

Schumacher returns at the European Grand Prix in Valencia later this month (GETTY IMAGES)

Michael Schumacher has admitted there are concerns over his fitness as he prepares to come out of retirement to fill in for the injured Felipe Massa.

"The practice is going pretty well," said Schumacher yesterday. "I only have to admit that my neck pinches a bit. We have to get a grip on that as my health is the priority – that's the clear arrangement made with Ferrari and with my wife too."

The 40-year-old German is poised to return to the track at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on 23 August.