The story of David Unsworth is one of loyalty, resilience, and an unwavering connection to Everton Football Club. From a no-nonsense, goal-scoring defender to the architect of a golden generation of youth talent, his career is a unique tapestry woven into the very fabric of the club. This is the complete story of the man they call “Rhino.”
Profile at a Glance
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Full Name: David Gerald Unsworth
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Date of Birth: October 16, 1973
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Age: 52 (as of 2025)
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Place of Birth: Chorley, Lancashire, England
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Playing Position: Centre-Back, Left-Back
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Net Worth: Estimated $3 – $5 Million USD
David Unsworth Early Life and Roots
Long before the roar of Goodison Park, David Unsworth was a boy from Chorley with a dream. Born in 1973, he grew up in a working-class household where discipline and hard work were core values. His passion for football was evident from a young age, and his talent quickly set him apart from his peers.
He attended Runshaw College in Lancashire, where a pre-diploma course in sport and football helped channel his ambition. An instructor from the time noted his intense motivation, particularly when a task was linked to the beautiful game. This dedication paved the way for him to join the youth academy of the club that would become his spiritual home: Everton.
David Unsworth Family: The Bedrock of His Life
While his professional life played out in the public eye, David Unsworth has always fiercely protected his private family life. He is a devoted family man, married to his wife, Jayne A. Friar, since June 1996. Their partnership has been the cornerstone of his stability, with Jayne’s influence famously leading to one of the most dramatic transfer U-turns in Premier League history.
Together, they have three children:
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Courtney Lea (born 1996)
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Finley Anne (born 1998)
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Bailey Olivia (born 2004)
His family’s happiness and desire to remain in the North West were pivotal in his decision to leave Aston Villa after just one month in 1998, a move that highlighted his priorities long before the term “work-life balance” became commonplace.
The Playing Career: Everton’s “Rhino”
David Unsworth’s professional career (1992-2009) was defined by a commanding physical presence, a fierce competitive spirit, and an unexpected prowess from the penalty spot. Standing at 6’1″, he was a formidable defender who could play at centre-back or left-back, earning the fitting nickname “Rhino” from the Everton faithful.
Everton: A Love Affair in Two Acts
Unsworth’s story is, first and foremost, an Everton story. After graduating from the academy, he made his debut in 1992. His legacy was cemented in 1995 when he played a key role in Everton’s 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Manchester United, a legendary moment in the club’s history.
In a surprising move, he transferred to West Ham United in 1997, but a subsequent switch to Aston Villa in 1998 lasted a mere month. Unsworth’s family struggled to settle away from Merseyside, prompting a triumphant return to Everton for a club-record fee at the time. He remained a vital player until 2004, renowned for his reliability from twelve yards.
A Journey Through England’s Leagues
After his second Everton departure, Unsworth became a respected journeyman, bringing his experience and lethal penalty-taking to several clubs:
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Portsmouth (2004-2005): Scored a penalty in a famous 2-0 win over Manchester United.
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Sheffield United (2005-2007): Achieved promotion to the Premier League.
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Wigan Athletic (2007): In a dramatic twist of fate, he scored the penalty on the final day of the season that saved Wigan from relegation and sent his former club, Sheffield United, down.
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Burnley (2007-2008): Provided defensive solidity for a season.
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Huddersfield Town (2008-2009): His final club before retiring.
On the international stage, Unsworth earned seven caps for England’s U21s and made one senior appearance in a 2-1 win over Japan in 1995.
David Unsworth The Coaching Chapter: Shaping the Future
Upon retiring in 2009, Unsworth immediately transitioned into coaching, beginning a new chapter that would solidify his legacy.
The Everton Academy Architect
His most impactful work began in 2014 when he took charge of Everton’s U23s and became the Academy Director. Under his guidance, Everton’s youth system entered a golden era, winning the Premier League 2 title in 2017 and 2019. He was instrumental in the development of future first-team stars, proving his eye for talent and ability to nurture young players.
Caretaker Manager and Oldham Challenge
Unsworth twice answered the call to be Everton’s caretaker manager, steadying the ship in 2016 and again in 2017 after the sacking of Ronald Koeman.
In September 2022, he took on his first permanent managerial role at Oldham Athletic. However, after a difficult start to the 2023/24 season, he was relieved of his duties in September 2023.
David Unsworth Net Worth and Present Day
Through a long and successful career as both a player and a coach, David Unsworth has accumulated an estimated net worth of $3 to $5 million USD.
Since his departure from Oldham, he has been involved in coaching consultancy and mentoring, sharing his vast knowledge of player development. His deep connection to football suggests a return to a formal role within a club or academy is a matter of when, not if.
Conclusion
David Unsworth’s journey is a testament to the power of loyalty and passion. As a player, he was the embodiment of grit and determination, a defender who played with his heart on his sleeve and scored crucial goals. As a coach, he became a visionary builder, shaping the future of his beloved club from the ground up.
While his stint as a permanent manager was brief, his legacy as an Everton man, a dedicated family man, and a cultivator of talent is secure. David “Rhino” Unsworth remains a respected and beloved figure in the world of football.
