SAM ADMITS UNSY INTEREST

Wednesday 10 March 2004, 11:13

Bolton Boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed that he could be interested in taking David Unsworth to the Reebok Stadium on a free transfer in the summer.

The Everton defender looks set to sever his ties with the Blues after spending almost his entire career at Goodison come the end of the season when his current contract ends.

Unsworth, who has admitted he would like to prolong his stay on Merseyside, has turned down a new one-year deal by the club but feels that at the stage he is at in his career he needs a longer-term offer.

David Unsworth battles with Jason Euell

The news will undoubtedly alert a number of Premiership clubs looking to bolster their options during the close season and Allardyce has become the first boss to admit an interest.

"Somebody with his experience would be very good for a club like ours," said the Bolton chief, who could lose a number of Bolton's key performers in the summer when their contracts expire.

"Anybody who has played Premiership football and is available would interest me if they fell within our wage structure and would be happy with the length of contract we would be prepared to offer."

[David Unsworth] OPTA stats
Minutes played	1,710
Goal Attempts
Goals	2
Shots on target	3
Shots off target	4
Blocked Shots	1
Passing
Goal assists	0
Passes	735
Pass completion %	70%
Crossing
Crosses	42
Cross completion %	48%
Dribbling
Dribbles & Runs	27
Dribble completion %	93%
Defending
Tackles	58
Tackles won %	69%
Blocks	18
Clearances	133
Interceptions	12
Discipline
Fouls	20
Offsides	0
Yellow cards	3
Red cards	0