Schumi Might come where as Fisi might be at Sauber

Bernie Ecclestone has added fuel to the fire in the ongoing Michael Schumacher comeback saga, stating that the German's possible return is 'a bit stronger than a rumour.'

The seven-time World Champion has been consistently linked with a return to the sport for some time, and was set to replace Felipe Massa following the Ferrari driver's crash in Hungary.

Injury prevented that particular comeback but the rumour-mill continues to link the German with a return, with latest reports linking him to Mercedes GP.

"I would personally doubt that he's going to make a comeback but, having said that, it's maybe getting a bit stronger than a rumour," Ecclestone told The Times.

The F1 supremo admits that the 40-year-old's return would be a major boost to the sport.

"Oh, it would be magic," said the Briton. "You saw the interest he created when he was going to come back after Felipe Massa had his accident."

Following the departures of Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, Mercedes GP have snapped up Nico Rosberg from Williams but still have one free seat, with the latest speculation suggesting that either Schumacher or Nick Heidfeld will fill the void.

Ask which of the German pair he would choose, Ecclestone had little hesitation in making a decision.

"Well you'd have to pick Michael wouldn't you?" he said. "There's no discussion about that. It's the obvious thing. Whether or not this is going to happen, I don't know. If I was Michael I wouldn't do it, but I'm sure he knows he could get the job done."

Giancarlo Fisichella admits he would enjoy making a return to the Sauber team if it ensured he had a race seat next season.

Fisichella has been confirmed as one of Ferrari's test drivers for the coming season but the experienced Italian has not given up hope of securing a starting berth with Sauber reportedly interested in his services.

Having driven for Sauber in 2004, the 36-year-old is upbeat about a possible return.

"I would be delighted, of course, with a team to work together, which I already know and with whom I have been perfectly well," Fisichella said at the Bologna Motor Show.

"Besides, I am naturally very pleased that the team will be at the start," he added.