McLaren driver Fernando Alonso is preparing to return to the grid at the Malaysian Grand Prix later this month.

Alonso was knocked unconscious during a crash in winter testing, and he has been ruled out of this weekend's season opener in Australia.

However, the Spaniard quashed rumours that he may need a longer break by stating that he is already back in training.

He told reporters: "Of course, I'm very disappointed not to be joining Jenson [Button] in Melbourne in the McLaren-Honda garage, but I understand the recommendations of the doctors and I'm already back in training and preparing for my first race in the MP4-30.

"I would like to thank everybody for their kind wishes and support and I'll be giving everything to be back in the cockpit for Malaysia. I wish Kevin [Magnussen] all the best for this weekend in Australia, and I know the car is in his safe hands!"

Alonso rejoined McLaren in the close-season.