Although Michael Schumacher says he understands why some were disappointed with his P6 in Bahrain, the German has reminded them that he is not "a magician."
After three years away from Formula One racing, Schumacher made his comeback with Mercedes GP in Bahrain two weeks ago to mixed reactions.
While some celebrated his sixth-placed finish, a decent achievement after a three-year layoff, Schumacher concedes that there were others who wanted better from him.
"I know that people have a lot of trust in me and I'm proud of that, but then I'm not a magician either," said the seven-time World Champ is quoted by ITV.
"I'm just human.
"I've been around long enough to know what it takes, how much attention to details and how important little fine-tuning is, and you can't expect me to just be there straightaway.
"In general I was quite happy - I had a good start, a clean race, and no mistakes.
"The lap times were competitive for the standard of the car.
"For me it was a good start after this kind of break, I was quite happy with this.
"I wasn't dreaming kicking everyone's arse, but neither was I kicked, so I'm okay."
One of the aspects that caught people's attention was the fact that Schumacher was beaten by his team-mate Nico Rosberg, both in qualifying and in the grand prix.
Schumacher, though, isn't at all fazed that first blood went to the younger German.
"It was the other way around in the past, but it was the first race of the beginning of a new challenge for me, so I'm relaxed about it," he said.
"He's a very good and fast driver - I don't think I need to be ashamed of where I was in Bahrain."
Looking ahead to this weekend's race in Australia, the 41-year-old admits that Mercedes GP have some way to go before they catch the Red Bulls, Ferraris and even the McLarens.
"We have a fair amount to catch up," he said. "The matter of fact is that we are a new team and we have to develop ourselves.
"The car was started long before it was clear which drivers would be on board.
"You have to see what issues you have and then develop accordingly."
He added: "I'm mainly here for enjoyment, but at the same time I'm not only here for big laughs - I want to win.
"The joy is much higher if you're successful."
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