Everton must be wary of appointing David Unsworth due to his under-23 success.
Everton under-23 coach David Unsworth has emerged as an early favourite to replace Ronald Koeman as first team manager.
Unsworth is a contender after his strong recent record at under-23 level, but Everton should also hold back because of this.
A recent cautionary tale is Leeds United, who promoted their academy boss Neil Redfearn three seasons ago with disappointing long-term ramifications.
Redfearn began well and galvanised the fan base, quickly getting supporters back onside after two quick hire-and-firings by Massimo Cellino.
But when his time was up at the end of the season, he departed the club, and Leeds lost both a manager and their head of academy.
The effects are still being felt, with Leeds’ under-23 team struggling for the past two seasons, and Redfearn’s very able guidance to young players becoming a big miss, despite the progression of Vieira, Phillips and Shaughnessy to the first team.
Everton must be cautious over appointing Unsworth, and risk upsetting their fantastic under-23 set up.
The Toffees’ young side won the league at under-23 level last season, and had five players in England’s under-20 World Cup winning XI.
The academy is more important than ever to Everton’s long term success, and while Unsworth may deserve a chance in the future, he may be more valuable in his current role and difficult to replace, than as first team boss.
If Everton get it wrong, they could end up scoring a major own goal.
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