Button has only scored one point in the first eight races of the season

Button secured his team's first point of the season with an eighth-placed finish at the French GP on Sunday.

And despite Honda's dire start, Fry has challenged Button to compete with his British compatriot Hamilton, the championship leader.

He said: "I don't see any reason why, if we give him the equipment, he can't be competing with Lewis."

Interview: Jenson Button

Honda made serious errors with the car over the winter but the Japanese manufacturers have since slowly clawed their way back up the grid.

Button tries every bit as hard in fighting for 12th place on the grid as he does for second or third Nick Fry

And Fry believes Button's work rate and commitment will spark a revival for the team.

"My admiration for Jenson goes up day by day, month by month," he added.

"It's relatively easy to be optimistic when you have a good car and you are doing well. But Jenson really has matured with his professionalism and fighting spirit.

"He tries every bit as hard in fighting for 12th place on the grid as he does for second or third. But in the years I've known Jenson, every year he has been better than the year before.

Button too, insists the early problems with his car are now behind him and said after Sunday's race: "It's a relief to drive a car that feels nice, is consistent, and one I feel is a good starting point.

"After a good weekend in France, I'm looking forward to another now at the British Grand Prix."