Despite Everton announcing on Wednesday a record £75.7million turnover to the end of May this year a January spending spree is unlikely. "The figures this week show the club is being run exceptionally well and is moving in the right direction," said assistant manager Steve Round.

"It shows we're solid, with solid foundations, and that we're doing everything right, both on and off the field. It's another feather in our cap.

"But as for money to spend, no, I don't think so.

"In the past funds have been made available, but it's having them there to make.

"We're in this situation with the credit crunch where everybody is having to tighten their belts, and we're no different."