Allan Saint-Maximin says he joked to Joe Willock that he would score the winner against Burnley.
The French winger made only his second appearance since suffering a groin injury that kept him out of action for 35 days, but his emergence sealed the game at Turf Moor.
Saint-Maximin made one and scored one in a nine-minute spell after appearing from the bench.
Saint-Maximin said: "I did not enjoy watching from the bench because we were losing 1-0, but when I came on I knew I could help my team. It’s what I try to do.
"I made a joke with Joe Willock, I said I would score!"
Saint-Maximin underlined the fact that he was dialled into the importance of the fixture in Lancashire.
Indeed, the victory meant that there is now a six-point gap between the Magpies and Fulham, who lost 1-0 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night at Craven Cottage.
The winger told Match of the Day: "This was the most important game for Newcastle this season.
"We had an opportunity because Fulham conceded in the last minute.
"Burnley are a difficult team to play."
Saint-Maximin's presence was hailed after the game by Steve Bruce who pointed out it was only his 18th appearance of an injury and illness ravaged season.
Now with seven matches remaining and Saint-Maximin building back up to a place in Bruce's starting line-up, Saint-Maximin reflected: "In my head, I have one thought. It’s to help the team win.
"We know Fulham have one game more.
"This victory gives us real belief because after this game we have to play Arsenal, Leicester, Liverpool.
"This will give us a lot of confidence."
