Leighton Baines hails new signings

Everton defender Leighton Baines believes that the Toffees' new signings have given the club a much-needed "boost" for the remainder of the season.

The Merseyside club have had a difficult campaign, but the acquisition of new additions including former Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson and ex-Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic has buoyed David Moyes's team.

"[The January signings] lifted everyone associated with the club," said Baines. "It gave everyone a boost.

"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 that, 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. We certainly feel as though we are on the up again."

Everton prepare to host top-four outfit Chelsea at Goodison Park tomorrow.