Hülkenberg certainly has had his moments, like mentioned in the Sauber last year. Qualifying 3rd at Monza was a stunner.

As for criticism, the goal of racing drivers is to collect as many points as possible over a full season. And in fulfilling that goal Hülkenberg is very efficient. Based on current situation he is right there battling with Alonso and the Red Bulls for best of the rest position behind the Mercedes' in the championship.

Even if he doesn't have a true standout drive out of the first four races this year yet, he is still at least on the level of prime form Heidfeld/Button, which is also a very good level, let's not underestimate that. Just to recall Heidfeld from 2007 or Button from 2011. The "quiet achiever" as the saying goes.

As for Pérez, I think chances are his inconsistency is likely to relegate him into having a midfield career for the rest of his career. Of course based on how team performances fluctuate it is hard to make conclusive claims, looking at how good Force India has been so far this year. But it is hard to see him in contention for seats, which are considered to be the prime places with biggest competition, like Red Bull, Mercedes or Ferrari.