ISTANBUL, May 9, 2008 (AFP) - Heikki Kovalainen impressed on Friday in his first return to action in a Formula One car following his high-speed accident in Spain two weeks ago.

The Finn said he was glad to be back in action and he delivered an impressive return performance for his McLaren Mercedes team.

He was second fastest in opening practice in the morning and then fifth in the afternoon, an excellent effort for a man who suffered severe concussion in Barcelona.

He said: "It was nice to get back in the car again and everything was fine. I was on the pace immediately and was able to set some consistent lap times.

"At the end of the first session I went out on the option tyre but the brake temperature was not quite right, so I was not able to go flat out in that run.

"The second session went smoothly as well, and we focused on tyre evaluation with some long runs as well as looking at the set-up. A very productive and positive day."

His team-mate Briton Lewis Hamilton, who was second fastest, said: "We focused on tyre evaluation and set-up work today and so far things are not looking too bad.

"Everybody lost a bit of running time in the first session as the track was still wet in places after cleaning. This circuit is constantly evolving which is challenging but also enjoyable.

"In the first session I stayed on the same set of tyres throughout and experienced no problems. In my last run of the day I put on a new set of tyres but had a small moment which cost me some time. Overall I am pleased with our initial pace and consistency."