Nicky Butt believes can Newcastle can challenge for honours next season if they spend wisely in the summer.

Kevin Keegan endured a difficult start after returning to St James' Park, failing to win any of his first nine games and suffering heavy losses at the hands of Arsenal, Aston Villa, Manchester United and Liverpool, but they have since won three of their last four games.

"It's looking exciting at the moment and there's no doubt we have the potential to be up there next year," he said.

"We need to wrap this season up on a high and then get a well-earned rest during the summer.

"After that we can look to next season and see what players the manager can bring in to assemble a squad that can challenge."

He added: "The feel-good factor is back and there's a great atmosphere among the lads at the moment.

"Confidence is the big difference because once you have that you try things that create chances and goals.

"It's good that we did stick together and showed team spirit through the rocky patch. That's important ahead of next season because you need that to stand a chance of achieving anything."