Berbatov: Real Madrid rumours are affecting Pochettino Real Madrid Spurs have struggled so far this season

Dimitar Berbatov believes that Mauricio Pochettino is becoming unsettled at Tottenham Hotspur because of links to the Real Madrid job.

Spurs' average start to the season was made worse by a humiliating exit in the Carabao Cup to fourth-tier Colchester United on Tuesday.

After a few bad results and post-match interviews there has been a lot of talk about Mauricio Pochettino's position," Berbatov told Betfair.

"I hope that he hasn't had enough of Spurs, he has been there for almost six years, he's one of the longest serving managers in the Premier League.

"I know that sometimes when you lose games negative things can creep into your mind; you start to question yourself and if you can still motivate your players.

"Why would he want to go? For me he is in the right place with the right team, he knows what to do and, of course, it is his decision if he doesn't want to stay.

"The constant rumours about the Real Madrid job are confusing for the people involved.

"In those situations when you read these things, you start to question yourself. Am I in the right place? Do I need to move now? Is it time for change?

"It doesn't affect anyone in a positive way. Everyone should put this thinking aside and let Pochettino focus on his work as Tottenham manager.

"A time will come when he says goodbye, but I hope it isn't going to be just now."