MARK MAGUIRE is ‘thrilled to bits’ with the response of Chester fans who have snapped up almost 1,000 season tickets.

The Blues have already sold over 900 season tickets for the upcoming campaign and are comfortably on course to break through last year’s numbers, with chief executive Maguire adding it would be ‘incredible’ if the club could reach the 1,200 barrier.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to bits with the response,” he said. “From speaking to supporters when they have come in, there’s a really positive feeling amongst the fans and many of them have been surprised at the quality of player we’ve been able to sign.

“With the investment on the pitch, the playing side of things and the ticket sales, it’s hugely positive.”

Maguire remains hopeful Chester will be able to bring in ‘two or three’ more signings before the start of the new campaign, with a back-up goalkeeper and a versatile defender still sought after by Jon McCarthy.

The Blues are yet to hear back from striker James Alabi regarding his future, with Maguire having had no contact yet from potential suitors.

Dagenham and Redbridge were leading the race to sign the 22-year-old but their interest has cooled in recent weeks following the signings of attacking duo Morgan Ferrier and Michael Cheek.

“The onus is on James now, but we’ve not had any contact from the player or from any potential clubs,” Maguire added on last season's 17-goal top scorer.

“Ultimately he has a responsibility to himself now to get himself sorted.”