Everton reportedly allow key figure to hold talks with another club

According to reports, Everton have given U-23’s boss David Unsworth permission to speak with Oxford United over their managerial vacancy.

Oxford are currently looking for a new boss after sacking Pep Clotlet during the January transfer window.

Unsworth guided the Everton U23 side to the 2016-17 Premier League 2 title and he has been credited with the development of youngsters such as Tom Davies, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jonjoe Kenny.

He did have a chance to manage the senior side this season following the sacking of Ronald Koeman but was less than successful as he went on to lose five out of his eight games in charge of the team.

Unsworth may be looking to launch his managerial career at senior level and this could be something that appeals to him.

He has previously turned down the opportunity to manage Irish club Sligo Rovers in 2012 and Scottish Premier League club Kilmarnock the following year.