Fernando Alonso admits it has been a tough start to life for Stoffel Vandoorne with McLaren as he continues to learn the ropes.

Vandoorne made his Formula One debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix last season, filling in for Alonso, and he was handed a permanent seat this term following Jenson Button’s retirement.

Alonso has picked up just two points this season due to a number of issues with the McLaren, while Vandoorne has failed to finish better than 12th.

Reports have claimed that McLaren are considering Vandoorne’s future but Alonso feels it has been a tough year to come into the sport on a full-time basis.

Alonso said: "It is difficult and frustrating for him.

"He does not know most of the tracks, so he's learning the circuits and everything about Formula 1 but he can't test the car and often he is going into qualifying with no preparation.

"It is a difficult season for him and also for the team in general, and myself too. We hope to have a competitive car next year."