Everton have previously said they had made their final offer and would not budge. They have also said they will not negotiate new deals with any of their players until the summer – and that includes Wayne Rooney.

But Unsworth has underlined his value to the club with some outstanding performances in defence while David Weir and Joseph Yobo have been out injured. And with the Nigerian likely to miss a month of the new year while on African Nations Cup duty, the versatile Unsworth could be crucial to boss David Moyes’ plans.

Unsworth said: “I have really been enjoying playing as a centre-back. It has been great to get back there. It took a bit of getting used to again, but I am thoroughly enjoying it. We have had some really decent performances and results.”

The defender admits he wants to stay, saying: “It would obviously be a big disappointment to leave, but that is football.

“But you never say never – and you do not know what is around the corner. But there is a possibility I could be leaving.”