Marcus Ericsson says his current form is crucial amid the increased competition for a 2019 Formula 1 seat with Sauber.
Sauber last year finished a lonely last in the Constructors' Championship but has propelled itself back into the midfield this year, taking a handful of Q3 appearances and regular points at the lower end of the table.
Ericsson has been with the team since the end of 2014, becoming one of its longest-serving drivers, and has scored points in three of the last five Grands Prix.
Current team-mate Charles Leclerc is expected to stay on should Ferrari retain Kimi Raikkonen for another year, while reserve Antonio Giovinazzi is still pushing for his opportunity.
Amid the frantic ongoing silly season current McLaren driver Stoffel Vandoorne has also been linked with Sauber due to his manager’s connection with the team and his past relationship with boss Frederic Vasseur.
“My management is speaking to them constantly, so hopefully sooner rather than later we know what will happen,” said Ericsson on his 2019 plans.
“But obviously so much happening it’s a case of waiting to see what happens in other teams as well.
“I think the competition is a lot higher than it’s ever been at Sauber as the seat is so attractive now.
“For sure it makes it more difficult but also it’s more rewarding to drive in a team like that. I think it’s very positive but yeah, it makes it more competition for the seats.”
Ericsson reckons his recent form demonstrates that Sauber has the potential to target a top 10 finish at each Grand Prix.
“I feel like I have a good form and I’m doing well at the moment and need to continue that,” he said.
“Now I need to try and score points every weekend, we have a car capable of doing it and I believe we will be in that position for all of the races remaining.
“We know the midfield is extremely tight. If we do everything right we should be able to fight for those points every Sunday, it will be important.
“We know this time of year is important for the future so I need to have another strong weekend here [at Monza].”
