Everton management are delighted to see fans snap up season tickets in bigger numbers than last year.

Blues CEO Robert Elstone said: "It's great news with season tickets. Within the last day or two, we've just gone past last year's total, which is absolutely fantastic.

"With seven weeks to go until the big opening game against Arsenal, to be past last year's total is fantastic so I'm really, really pleased with that."

Elstone highlighted the positive sales figures are a reflection on the loyalty of fans - over 23,000 Evertonians have defied the credit crunch to show their dedication to follow next season's campaign.

"We've put out some good offers - reduced prices in certain key areas and offered different ways to pay and it's certainly paid dividends," Elstone added.

"The fantastic climax to the season obviously helped as well, but a combination of everything means we're delighted to pass last year's total, which augers well for a full stadium next season."