Leighton Baines was effusive in his praise for Everton’s caretaker boss David Unsworth after The Toffees’ dramatic 3-2 win against Watford.
David Unsworth did not hide the fact that he would have jumped at the prospect of taking over from Ronald Koeman on a full-time basis at Everton.
It is looking increasingly unlikely, however, that the caretaker boss will be handed the manager’s job by majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri. Sky Sports report that Unsworth is indeed being considered by the Everton hierarchy but he is clearly not their first choice.
The report claims that Moshiri has held discussions with freelance firefighter Sam Allardyce about a short-term role until the end of the season. Everton also plan to talk to Burnley boss Sean Dyche too.
Though while Unsworth has no experience in managing in the Premier League for a prolonged period, and has lost three of his four games in temporary charge, perhaps the Everton decision makers should keep in mind the comments made by left-back Leighton Baines on Sunday.
‘Top drawer’
“It makes it extra special [winning for Unsworth],” the 32-year-old said in quotes reported by Sky Sports after a dramatic second-half fightback paved the way for a 3-2 comeback win against Watford at Goodison Park.
“He has been top drawer. I have loved the training sessions he has put on and the way he has conducted himself.
“His talk before the game today was special.”
Unsworth clearly has the backing of the players and that second-half blitz against The Hornets was by far the best Everton have played all season.
The Toffees would know exactly what they are getting with Allardyce and Dyche, two pragmatic managers who would guarantee decent results if not high quality football.
Unsworth, in contrast, is a risk. But last season’s Premier League 2 winning manager may be a risk worth taking.
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