CHAIRMAN Eddie Mitchell believes Cherries’ dream Carling Cup draw demonstrates the club’s upturn in fortunes – and he hopes the Dean Court feelgood factor can inspire a season-ticket sales surge.

Cherries were yesterday handed a trip to south coast rivals Southampton in the first-round of the knockout competition. It means Eddie Howe’s men will visit St Mary’s in the week commencing August 9.

The clubs have not met in a competitive fixture since the 1987-88 season, when Cherries defeated Saints over two legs in the League Cup.

Mitchell described the outcome as “fantastic”. He told the Echo: “I think if luck’s on our side then people better join in now because it just shows which way the club is going.

“I just think when the luck’s going your way, it’s going your way.”

Mitchell added: “I’ve had several phone calls about it. It’s really given us a good taster to start the season with.”

The Dean Court chief is hoping the excitement generated by the cup draw can help with season-ticket sales. He last night confirmed that the deadline for renewals had been extended to Saturday at 5pm, with the club aiming to break the 3,000 barrier. Sales are currently in the region of 2,200.

Mitchell said: “There’s a good feeling around the town about next season.

“I’m sure we’ll have our fair share of good results and good days, and it’s all positive.”