Fabian Schar believes that the current day Newcastle United squad has more quality than the one managed by Rafa Benitez.
With 10 games of the season now played, United lie 17th in the Premier League with nine points - six more than at the same point last year under Benitez .
However disappointing performances at home to teams around them in the league have left some fans uninspired with the opening run of results.
Yet Schar, who has starred this season, believes the team will improve.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "It’s been a mixed start to the season but we’ve had a difficult start against five of the big sides in the first 10 games.
“We know how difficult the league is and that we have to score more goals.
“But we will improve. We know how good we can be and all we can do is look forward day by day.
“I’m positive in the quality and belief in the team, we perhaps have more quality than last year.
”We’re still at the bottom of the table but it’s very close and with one or two wins everything looks better."
Schar missed his first game of the season - the 1-1 draw with Wolves over the weekend - and is likely to be out of action for the trip West Ham on Saturday with the same injury.
Federico Fernandez replaced him, and impressed leaving few questions over who will continue in Schar's absence at the back.
The main debate over team selection is with regards the forward line - and in particular Joelinton.
The Brazilian had another tough weekend, and it has been suggested by some that he be rested for the trip to the capital.
Schar defended the club's record signing.
"We can't just say our attacking players have to score goals," Schar added.
"You have to look at how we play and what our strikers and forwards do in terms of defensive work
"Many people don't see that or forget that they are hard-working guys who do everything for the team to defend and it's difficult to do the same attacking."
