British rookie Jolyon Palmer has criticised his Renault team for failing to give him enough credit following the announcement that Nico Hulkenberg will join the French outfit next season.
Palmer's Formula One future hangs precariously in the balance after Renault confirmed last week that Hulkenberg will move from Force India.
Renault have made little secret of their desire to change their line-up for 2017 with Palmer and team-mate Kevin Magnussen, formerly of McLaren, now fighting for the one remaining seat.
Indeed with highly-rated Mercedes youngster Esteban Ocon, currently driving for Manor, also on Renault's wishlist, it is not wholly conceivable that both could be without a drive next season.
"Neither of us have got the credit we deserved in a difficult car, and that has been proved by the fact that at least one of us will be replaced," said a frustrated Palmer ahead of this week's United States Grand Prix.
Palmer earned the first point of his career in Malaysia earlier this month before an impressive display in Japan where he finished 12th and comfortably ahead of Magnussen.
"I think they appreciated the drive in Suzuka, but do they [Renault] appreciate everything we have done? I am not sure," Palmer added on Thursday night.
"The next couple of weeks something will be decided. I feel like I am in a much clearer position. In my opinion there are three drivers going for one seat."
Palmer, the former GP2 champion, endured a frustrating start to his career, but the 25-year-old from Horsham has steadily improved as the season has wore on.
Force India will need a replacement for Hulkenberg while there is also an option at minnows Manor next season.
Meanwhile, Palmer revealed he would explore all options his goal is to remain with Renault.
"Things have been getting better and better this year, but the rest is out of my hands," Palmer added.
"I want to stay with Renault, but I need to look elsewhere because clearly somebody is going to be disappointed. I have to prove why I should be here, but there are other options.
"Obviously the Force India seat has been closed until last week and that is a good option, but the main focus is on doing a good job here.
"I have been improving all the time. Malaysia was a good race and Suzuka was even better. If I can keep that up I have got a lot to show in Formula One."
Source: PA
