IT’S amazing what difference a good cup run and a few signings make. Everton’s early bird season ticket offer closed last Friday, with almost 20,000 Blues guaranteeing their seat at Goodison.

Sales were up 2% on last year’s figure, while many have taken advantage of the excellent new £95 kids offer.

It seems like the January transfer business has not only boosted David Moyes’ team, but almost every other area of the club – and next term’s new Nike kit will still sell like hot-cakes even if the FA Cup euphoria is gone.

Chief executive Robert Elstone said: “Renewal rates have been extremely positive but one of the more pleasing aspects is the number of new Evertonians purchasing – especially our young supporters.ŠFollowing the success of the £5 FA Cup kids ticket this season, we were looking forward to the introduction of our new kids ticket and it’s fantastic to see that more than half of the 1,000 purchased so far, are new season ticket holders.”

Elstone added: “The Early Bird campaign was only the first stage. There is still a long way to go but existing season ticket holders only have until May 13 to guarantee their seat. After this point we will have some great seats available.”

One can only imagine what a difference it will make to summer sales if Moyes is able to do his transfer business early.