Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan admits it's been a battle to find the right quality in this summer's transfer market.

"We have got quality in the squad but the hard part is finding quality players to add to it," he told Radio Five's Sportsweek programme.

"Anyone can gather players, it's the easiest thing in world. Anyone can buy players but the important thing is to get the right players."

Keegan maintains his belief that the top four are unlikely to be caught by the chasing pack in the near future but he does believe he can inspire the Magpies to a successful season.

He said: "As we try and strengthen to catch up the top four strengthen to keep us away. Being realistic is important and at the moment they are a little way ahead of us - the league table shows you that.

"You try but the odds are a little bit against you, especially when you play them away. But you must always believe you have a chance and we'll go there and think we have a chance.

"Between fourth and eighth (in the table) would, to be honest, be a big step up for us.

"Looking at it purely from the crowd point of view - look how strong the fan base is in the north east.

"We should be able to make it a difficult place to come and get points."