London, Dec 24(ANI): Former Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has welcomed seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher’s decision to make a sensational comeback with Mercedes GP four years after he retired from the sport.

Schumacher ended weeks of speculation by agreeing to a seven million pound deal, with a two-year option, to replace reigning champion Jenson Button at the ex-Brawn GP team.

“It’s great to have Michael back in Formula One. He is a legend and a really nice guy, and I am happy that he has once again got an opportunity to do the best job in the world. I wish him my absolute best on his comeback with Mercedes-Benz.” The Telegraph quoted Hamilton, as saying.

“I used to watch Michael race when I was in the junior categories. I always hoped that I would be in F1 while he was still around,” he added.

Meanwhile, Schumacher has also been warned by his former Ferrari team-mate Eddie Irvine that the Hamilton has an edge over him.

Irvine believes that Schumacher - infamous for his ruthless track tactics during his heyday - will lift off the pedal when he goes head-to-head with younger rivals like Hamilton.

“Lewis is not going to back off and someone like Michael will have to. He will be 41 and, as you get older, you do that. The young guy will have the psychological advantage. There has never been anyone better than Michael in getting a car around a circuit as fast as possible,” Irvine said.

“But in a head-to-head with Lewis or some of the younger guys, I wouldn’t put my money on Michael as he would be mad to get really involved. On pure speed, he is probably up there with the best of them still. But I don’t believe Michael will be as fast as he was seven years ago,” he added. (ANI)