Everton fullback Leighton Baines says their January signings have lifted morale around the club.

The early signing of Landon Donovan on loan again from Los Angeles Galaxy and Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson's arrival were complemented by £5.5million Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic and Steven Pienaar, returning on loan from Tottenham, coming in on deadline day.

"I think [January's transfer dealings] lifted everyone associated with the club, it certainly did from what we see within the club, it gave everyone a boost," said the left-back.

"It was massive, in particular, what that 24 hours did for us with the two new lads coming in (on deadline day) and the win over Manchester City.

"We needed it and it does lift people. It is hard to articulate exactly why that is at times but to get the new bodies in really helped.

"It was a productive period for the club and we certainly feel as though we are on the up again."