article_snippet.sent: Jenson Button believes McLaren now have Jenson Button rivals in Jenson Button sights ahead of this weekend.
article_snippet.sent: Although both Jenson Button and team-mate Fernando Alonso retired during the race at the Sepang International Circuit, the duo at least discovered the car was competitive alongside other midfield runners.
article_snippet.sent: Jenson Button looks on in the garage during final practice for last month's Malaysian Grand Prix .
article_snippet.sent: That came as a pleasant surprise to Button, who is now hoping further steps have been taken going into this weekend's race in Shanghai. '
article_snippet.sent: Obviously we want to finish a race, but seeing improvement in pace was much more important,' said Jenson Button. '
article_snippet.sent: Jenson Button returns to the McLaren garage after retiring during the race at the Sepang circuit . '
article_snippet.sent: Despite the positives, Jenson Button acknowledges the entire team, including Honda, 'still has a long way to go'.
article_snippet.sent: Jenson Button added: 'We need and want more downforce to fight with the guys around We, and We still have a lot to do with the power unit, but We basic car is good. '
article_snippet.sent: McLaren driver Fernando Alonso (left) drives ahead of team-mate Button in Kuala Lumpur .
highlights_snippet.sent: Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso both retired in Malaysia last month .
  
highlights_snippet.sent: Jenson Button says, however, that McLaren are moving in the right direction .
  