Mercedes GP today confirmed Nick Heidfeld will be the team's test/reserve driver for the 2010 season. Heidfeld replaces Anthony Davidson who filled the role for Brawn GP last year.

Nick drove for BMW Sauber last year, but has found himself without a competitive drive in 2010 despite the emergence of three new teams to the field.

Speaking of the change in role, Nick said:

Whilst I would of course have preferred a seat as an active driver, I am really proud to be part of the new Silver Arrows team. I have seen how committed everyone at the team is and I feel the same. I will be doing my very best to support Michael and Nico this year.

Norbert Haug, Vice President Mercedes-Benz Motorsport added:

We have known each other for many years and Nick was supported by our junior drivers programme from 1997. During his 10 years in Formula One, circumstances often made it difficult for him to achieve his breakthrough. However Nick is extremely capable, he will be an asset to our team and he will show this.

With Michael Schumacher yet to compete in a full Grand Prix weekend since 2006 and question marks remaining over recent injuries, the move by Mercedes to bring in a known quantity such as Heidfeld seems like sensible one.