Adam Wilson is determined for Newcastle United Under-23s to move into the Premier League 2 Division Two play-off spots ahead of Friday's trip to Fulham (kick-off 11am BST).
The young Magpies make the long trip to the capital to face the Cottagers' second-string at Motspur Park but dropped out of the play-off positions on Monday following a narrow 3-2 home defeat against Stoke City.
Wilson, who netted Newcastle's second goal against the Potters, believes the squad are focussed on rediscovering their earlier form in the league campaign, scoring seven goals and recording two clean sheets in their opening three fixtures.
"We're very determined to get back to winning ways," the 21-year-old told nufc.co.uk. "We've lost a few games on the bounce so the whole team is ready to try and put things right to move back towards the top of the league.
"We've still been playing well but recent results haven't gone our way. We played well in parts against Stoke, especially in the second-half, and if we can continue doing that we should be able to pick up results.
"In terms of playing, we were a lot better in the second than the first. We conceded a few silly goals though so if we can cut those mistakes out, we know we are capable of scoring goals. It's just about keeping them out of the net."
Wilson, who joined the Magpies' youth set-up at the age of ten, expressed his delight in scoring his first goal of the season against Stoke as the former England under-18 international made a positive impact as a second-half substitute.
Although his strike proved to be a consolation, the Ashington-born forward was pleased to net his first goal for United's under-23 side since April.
"It was good to get on the scoresheet," he added. "It was like a breath of fresh air as it had been a little while and it was good to contribute for the team.
"I came off the bench and my job was to change the game. I thought I did that. All I can do is try to prove that I'm working hard every day and adding bits of quality to my game."
Newcastle's youngsters currently boast an eight-game unbeaten streak against their upcoming opponents, recording six victories, and should they defeat Fulham by two or more goals, would jump from ninth place to the summit of the table.
"We'll looking to make it seven wins out of nine against them on Friday!" he said.
"It's still up for grabs. The table is still very tight in terms of points. We were top of the league not long ago so we'll be aiming to get back up and around there.
"Everyone has been doing well in training - the mood is still good around the academy but we all know we need to start winning games again."