Daniel Ricciardo remains confident that Toro Rosso will be challenging for points at this weekend's Formula One SingTel Singapore Grand Prix.

This, despite both he and team-mate Jean-Eric Vergne finishing outside the 10 best times at the end of free practice on Friday evening.

The 24-year-old, who will join Red Bull next season, clocked the 11th-best time at 1min 46.406sec, while Vergne was a place behind at 1:46.429.

"In high downforce configuration and high temperatures we have struggled a bit this year," Ricciardo pointed out.

"The changes to the car should see us make a step forward, although in F1 you always have to remember that the other teams are also developing their cars.

"But I'm confident we can move forward from there tomorrow and if we get into Q3, then we can look forward to a strong race on Sunday."