DAVID Unsworth has become the new favourite for the Oxford United job after it was reported an approach had been made.

The 44-year-old is the coach of Everton's under 23 side, but took charge of the senior team for eight games on a caretaker basis earlier this season.

The Toffees have given permission for Unsworth to speak with the U's, according to the Liverpool Echo.

As a result, the centre half is now odds-on to replace Pep Clotet, who was sacked as United boss almost two weeks ago.

With U's chairman Darryl Eales believed to be back in the UK after a trip abroad, it would appear interviews are being lined up for the next few days.

Unsworth has links with United, having agreed to several young Everton players - including Ryan Ledson, John Lundstram and Jonjoe Kenny - being sold or loaned to the club since taking over the under 23 role at Goodison Park in 2014.

Former Wales international Craig Bellamy was another to see his odds slashed over the weekend.