Tost: "I think that Pierre is back underway"

Franz Tost is optimistic about Pierre Gasly's chances this weekend at the Italian Grand Prix, despite starting second to last on the grid having taken a new Honda power unit for the race.

Gasly is making his second appearance back at Toro Rosso, having dropped back down from Red Bull during the mid-season break where he was replaced by Alexander Albon. He previously drove for Toro Rosso last season until he was promoted to Red Bull to replace Daniel Ricciardo.

His first race back at the constructor in Spa last weekend yielded a P9 finish and two points in the Drivers' Championship.

Tost reflected on Gasly's return to Toro Rosso and insists he can do well at Monza despite starting from the back.

"He showed in Spa a very, very good race. A very good performance. I think that Pierre is back underway and he will also come up with good results – hopefully here in Monza as well and I am quite positive," Tost said in the Friday press conference.

"Unfortunately here he has to start from the back of the grid because we change the power unit on his car but nevertheless – and Daniil showed it last week in Spa – it’s possible as well, scoring points and starting at the back of the grid."