Tottenham legend Gary Mabbutt says manager Tim Sherwood must develop a thicker skin.
Sherwood revealed his frustration at the weekend that chairman Daniel Levy has failed to back him publicly while speculation over his future mounts.
But Mabbutt told the Daily Star: "If you're in the realms of being a football manager, speculation about your role happens every single week.
"Whether your team is winning, losing, there's always speculation.
"It's one of those professions where no matter what happens there's always going to be questions asked.
"The only time you believe any of it, is when something definitely happens.
"I've said before Tim's doing a fantastic job. I think Tim's learned very quickly.
"Going from the role he had to being the first team manager was a very different role and a big step up.
"Everyone has to be impressed with what he's achieved."
