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David Unsworth confirms 'no change' on Everton's permanent managerial position

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David Unsworth says he would still like the Everton job on a permanent basis but will back any board's decision

Everton caretaker boss David Unsworth insists "nothing has changed" regarding the permanent manager's position and says it is an "honour and privilege" to still be in charge.

Unsworth took over Everton on a temporary basis last month following the sacking of Ronald Koeman after the side's 5-2 defeat to Arsenal saw them drop into the Premier League's bottom three.

The 44-year-old, who enjoyed his first win against Watford before the international break, has confirmed no time frame has been put on the caretaker role, while he remains "thrilled" to still be in the job.

Everton caretaker manager David Unsworth (right) celebrates victory with Leighton Baines after their win over Watford
Image: Unsworth has confirmed he is focused on working 'for the good of the club'

"I'm thrilled, it's a great honour. I said that right at the beginning," said Unsworth. "No matter how long I'm here for I'll give my best. It's a privilege and a great opportunity.

"There was never any amount of games or time said to me from the beginning, so to be still sat here is a great opportunity and we're fully focused and nothing's changed."

Despite uncertainty over the managerial vacancy, Unsworth maintains he is in constant contact with the club's hierarchy as he concentrates on working "for the best of the club".

"I've spoken to the chairman every day since I've been sat in this role," added Unsworth. "The chairman's been magnificent. I've spoken to Fahad three or four times, communication is fine and I continue to have the opportunity to lead the team.

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"Like I said at the beginning, what will be will be and other people will make the decision on who's going to be the Everton manager, and I'll be absolutely fine with that.

"The people that matter know how I feel and my thoughts will remain private - whoever gets the honour of being Everton manager, be it myself wonderful, but if not I'll shake the hand of whoever it is and wish them the best because I want them to win and succeed."

Sky Sports News understands Sam Allardyce is no longer in the running after turning the role down, while Watford were also contacted by Everton over Marco Silva though they were told he is staying at Vicarage Road.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Crystal Palace manager Sam Allardyce during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Traf
Image: Sam Allardyce has turned down the opportunity to manage Everton, according to Sky sources

Unsworth admits his surprise at reports suggesting a candidate would decline the opportunity to manage at Goodison Park.

"It would surprise me that anyone would rule themselves out of being Everton manager," he said.

"This is an amazing club with, in my opinion, the best fans - you saw that in the last game at Everton.

"So anybody who would ever rule themselves out of this great job would be a surprise to me. But that's up to those individuals."

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