David Unsworth has revealed that he is still interested in staying on as Everton manager for the long term, despite a tough run in caretaker charge.
The 44-year-old has overseen five defeats and one draw from seven games since taking over from Ronald Koeman last month, most recently going down 5-1 to Atalanta BC and 4-1 to Southampton.
Everton chiefs appear no closer to making a permanent appointment, with Sam Allardyce re-emerging as the favourite to succeed Koeman earlier this week, and Unsworth is prepared to continue in the role for as long as he is required.
"I think you never turn down the opportunity to be Everton manager," he told reporters. "I think it's very important you help the club out in a difficult time. Five weeks ago I was asked to do a job to come in to lead the team. I did that. I've been doing that.
"I wouldn't have turned it down five weeks ago, five days ago, five minutes ago. I would still do exactly the same. I'm a proud man and this is my club, and I love this football club, but at the moment we're in a difficult time, difficult moment and it's been tough.
"But it's time for people to stand up now and I'll stand up there as long as I have to, as long as I need to, for my football club."
Unsworth is preparing his side for back-to-back home games against West Ham United and Huddersfield Town this week.
