ALAN Smith believes that the influence of Kevin Keegan is starting to tell despite the Magpies' continuing search for a first win under the new boss.

The Geordies were denied what would've been a deserved three points against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday with visiting keeper Brad Friedel producing a string of top drawer saves before Matt Derbyshire snatched a winner at the death.

But, with Keegan now more than six weeks in to his second managerial stint on Tyneside, Smith feels that the effect of a change in training and tactics is beginning to show out on the pitch.

"The more and more we work together the more influence the manager is having," the 27-year-old told Newcastle World TV.

"We are getting fitter and there is a camaraderie and that's something the gaffer has emphasised since he came in.

"Everyone is playing for each other and that stands us in good stead.

"It is a time where we have to stand up and be counted, go out in front of 52,000 people and prove our worth.

"We've got to show to everyone that we want to fight for the cause."

Smith, who has experienced the pain of top flight relegation with hometown club Leeds United in 2004, knows that Newcastle could be sucked into a basement battle if they don't start to get some much-needed points on board.

"It's getting tight but you always knew it would do," he added.

"We looked at our home games as ones that were winnable, and one was against Blackburn.

"We've deserved criticism on occasions this season and we're all big enough to accept that.

"It's up to us as a team, as players, and as people to sort that out."