Massa (right) will be expected to support Schumacher

Former world champion Villeneuve says Massa is a "fighter" who will not easily accept number-two status alongside Michael Schumacher.

"I would be surprised if he just goes there, sits down and accepts everything," said Villeneuve.

"He is very good. He has matured a lot compared to a couple of years ago."

Eyebrows were raised following the world champions' decision to pick Massa because he has achieved little in three years of racing in F1 with Sauber.

Felipe's not one who will just accept being behind. He still has a lot of good years in front of him Jacques Villeneuve

He was outpaced by team-mates Nick Heidfeld and Giancarlo Fisichella in 2002 and 2004 and, after a bright start to 2005, has suffered a similar fate in recent races at the hands of Villeneuve.

But Villeneuve believes Massa, who he once claimed could barely drive in a straight line, has the speed to keep Schumacher on his toes.

"He's not one who will just accept being behind. He still has a lot of good years in front of him," added Villeneuve.

"He's still in a learning period, he is still progressing, and Ferrari can only be good for him."

However, Villeneuve feels Massa is unlikely to get any help from Schumacher.