Jol set to have his say after Levy gives his backing

Jol is due to speak ahead of Spurs' fixture at Manchester United on Sunday, but in almost three years in charge his position has never been under such scrutiny for his usual media briefing.

A meeting last week between Tottenham officials and Sevilla boss Juande Ramos emerged from Spain after Jol oversaw the victory over Derby last Saturday, Spurs' first win of the season.

Ramos has talked of an "offer" but Tottenham have consistently denied being in negotiations with anyone to replace their current boss, who has now been given a vote of confidence by chairman Daniel Levy.

Levy's initial response was lukewarm after clear-the-air talks on Tuesday, highlighting assurances from Jol rather than giving unequivocal backing.

The chairman's comments yesterday were more supportive.

"Martin has my 100 per cent support and I'd like the fans to understand that they need to take the last few days in the context of what we think has been significant progress over the last six years," he said.

"We both want success and Martin has assured me that I've got his 100 per cent commitment and I've given it to him."

Levy added that finishing outside the top four this season would not necessarily lead to the sack and also stated "no change would be made on the basis of two or three results".

That, however, does not address the perception of a deteriorating relationship between manager and chairman.

Backing Jol has not stopped Spurs being linked with other managers, and agents of possible candidates have contacted the club.

A Spurs spokesman said: "We have received a couple of calls about top managers and they have been told politely in no uncertain terms that we are not about to change manager."

Jol is a popular figure among his squad and his players have spoken in support for their manager.

He backed Paul Robinson after the goalkeeper conceded an embarrassing goal for England last season.

Despite a high-profile blunder this week, it was Robinson defending his boss following the troubled last few days.

"It's been a difficult week for the club," said Robinson. "Looking back on it now, from the very top to the players, it's made us stronger and we're all pulling in the same direction, as has always been the case.

"There have been a few conversations held and we all know what we want together and hopefully we'll be able to achieve it collectively.

"What doesn't kill you makes you stronger and as a group it's brought us all closer together and that's not just the manager but also the players and the board."