Max Verstappen has conceded Red Bull didn't expect to be as competitive at the German Grand Prix as their performance suggested in practice on Friday.

Following a disastrous Silverstone weekend, the Anglo-Austrian would lead both sessions at Hockenheim with the Dutchman setting the fastest time of the day in the afternoon, just ahead of Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes.

As expected, it was in the technical areas that the RB14 had the edge over both the Mercedes and Ferrari but while satisfied, Max wasn't getting too ahead of himself.

"A pretty good Friday," he assessed. "The tight parts of the track, Sectors 1 and 3, feel good and I think our pace shows in these areas.

"We have a good balance with the car which shows by topping FP2. It was a nice surprise to start so competitively here but we have to remember it is only Friday - the others will be quicker for qualifying

"[But] certainly a better than expected start. We are looking competitive ahead of tomorrow."

The only blip came with a stoppage during the race simulation to complete the afternoon which was linked to the engine, but a quick fix of the issue put those fears at rest.

"We lost a few laps due to a small oil leak this afternoon but I managed to get a few laps in at the end of the session to make sure everything was fine," Verstappen explained.

"I haven’t had a chance to do a proper long run yet but the feeling is good for now," he added. "Let’s hope we are in a similar position or at least close tomorrow.”

Ironically, the 20-year-old's lost race sim was countered by teammate Daniel Ricciardo only focusing on long runs as he prepares to start at the back of the grid due to engine penalties.

"We are looking quite good but obviously, I will be starting somewhere down at the back on Sunday due to the engine penalties," said the Australian.

"I’m actually pretty excited to come through the field and have a bit of fun. For me, it will be satisfying and for everyone watching it should be pretty fun as well."