Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has paid a compliment to his Tottenham Hotspur counterpart Martin Jol for his good work at White Hart Lane.

The Reds entertain Spurs, who are languishing in the 18th position, on Sunday with pressure reportedly mounting on Jol with doubts persistent on his future.

But Benitez feels Spurs need time as the new signings come into their own and believes Jol is a very good manager.

"It has been a difficult situation for Spurs this season, they have been in the spotlight all the time," Benitez said.

"But they have a good squad, they spent some money and they have a very good manager doing a good job.

"I remember last season when they progressed well and finished in the top five.

"He will need time after signing new players, but they still have a very good team and they will start winning, hopefully only after this weekend."