Everton interim boss David Unsworth has claimed that he was surprised to hear Sam Allardyce rule himself out of the running for the managerial position at Goodison Park.

Since Ronald Koeman was sacked last month, Allardyce had been considered to be one of the frontrunners for the job, but the former England boss has suggested that the hesitation of the Toffees hierarchy had put him off the role.

Unsworth will continue in the dugout for the Premier League fixture at Crystal Palace, and the temporary manager has acknowledged that he was aware of Allardyce's comments.

The 44-year-old told reporters: "It would surprise me that anyone would rule themselves out of potentially being Everton manager. This is an amazing club with, in my opinion, the best fans."

"Anybody who would ever rule themselves out of this great job, it would be a surprise to me."

Unsworth lost his first three games in charge before witnessing his side overturn a two-goal deficit to overcome Watford before the international break.