Paul Di Resta is hopeful that Force India's recent poor run might be over

Paul Di Resta is optimistic Force India can take the fight to Sauber after spotting encouraging signs of progress at the last race in Japan.

Meanwhile, Di Resta denied feeling uncertain about his future. As things stand, he doesn't have a contract for 2014 but is confident he has done enough to convince Force India to retain him. The Scot also cited the importance of continuity given the fundamental rules changes that will be ushered in next season. "I don't feel uncertain," he asserted. "Force India have come out and said what they want to say and we're making sure we're not missing any opportunities. I think in the midfield, nobody's certain anywhere at the moment. "I can't speak for them but I think I've delivered this year when I've been given the chance. Sometimes I've delivered more and places in qualifying where we've had mistakes. "It's all part of it. And at Suzuka we proved that when we get it all back under control and everything runs smoothly, we can deliver a good weekend." The 27-year-old added: "They know what I can do and they know that if they give me the tools then I can deliver. And I think consistency is probably going to be key for next year." However, it appears Di Resta is already playing catch-up this weekend as it was later revealed that illness has forced him to sit out Friday's P1 session. Reserve driver James Calado will deputise.