Tim Sherwood has claimed that people have been waiting for Tottenham Hotspur to fail since he became head coach at White Hart Lane.

Despite only replacing Andre Villas-Boas in December, Sherwood is believed to be under pressure as Spurs reportedly target managers such as Louis van Gaal to take over on a long-term basis.

"I think the perception is you cannot be a rookie manager and be that good," Sherwood told reporters. "People have been waiting for us to fail and lose some games.

"There is a lot of pressure but I didn't expect any different. I have got this job at the moment and it's up to me keep it.

"The club are obviously going to keep their options open and decide what they want to do in the future."

Spurs, who are currently fifth in the Premier League, take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.