Spyker hand Klien testing drive

Klien has raced in 46 Grands Prix since his 2004 debut

Austrian Christian Klien will take part in a one-day test for Spyker, who are looking for a new race driver after dropping Dutchman Christijan Albers.

Klien, 23, is a test driver for Honda but the team have given him permission to drive for Spyker in Spa on Thursday.

"I'd like to thank Spyker for this opportunity," said Klien, who lost his Red Bull seat to Mark Webber in 2007.

Spyker, who have yet to win a point, insist they have yet to decide who will replace Albers for the remaining races.

Team principal Colin Kolles said: "There are many elements to be considered before we can make our final decision on drivers.

"We'll evaluate all the options over the coming days before making any announcements ahead of the German Grand Prix and beyond."

However, Honda sporting director Gil de Ferran hinted his team would be willing to let Klien go, saying: "This test with Spyker could lead to him returning to a race seat and those opportunities do not come along often."

Spyker parted company with Albers because of a problems with his sponsorship.

The Dutch team are also considering promoting test driver Markus Winkelhock and have been linked with Indian Narain Karthikeyan, who currently test drives for Williams.