McLaren racing director Eric Boullier has insisted that Fernando Alonso is "raring to go" ahead of the Malaysian Grand Prix this weekend.

The Spaniard missed the opening race of the new season due to concussion following a crash in winter testing, with replacement driver Kevin Magnussen failing to even make the starting grid due to a power-unit issue.

However, the two-time world champion is expected to return in Sepang pending one last medical check by the FIA on Thursday.

"I'm pleased to see Fernando back in the car. He's raring to go, and I know he's been working hard behind the scenes to prepare himself for this weekend," Boullier told reporters.

McLaren failed to pick up a point in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, with Jenson Button finishing in 11th and last place.