Steve Bruce admits that Newcastle United are still struggling to address what he sees as a "historical" problem at the club.
When Bruce took over he warned that the season ahead would have to see an improvement in the goals for column in the Premier League.
But so far United have managed just four goals in five matches on his watch.
Bruce hasn't been helped by unavailability when it comes to players like Dwight Gayle, Andy Carroll and Allan Saint-Maximin, but when asked about goalscoring problems, he said: "I think when we play against the big teams we have to have some sort of structure in place.
"Of course, the problem in the Premier League is, can we score enough?
"History tells you here in the last couple of years scoring is a struggle.
"We're not alone.
"I think that is the hardest part, and every team is defensively structured, and that's why at the top end of the pitch you need something different.
"Certainly, with Andy Carroll coming back and Dwight Gayle round the corner, it gives us a bigger threat, Allan Saint-Maximin as well.
"I hope that they can all stay fit for a long period because the more options you have in the forward area the better."
Bruce is desperate to see Miguel Almiron find his first Premier League goal for Newcastle after 15 attempts without scoring so far.
Almiron even missed a penalty in pre-season against Preston North End as he tried to claw some confidence back.
Bruce was asked again on Almiron's form, he said: "The kid scored goals before he came here.
"I speak to him every day.
"The big difference is now that he's in the Premier League.
"I am convinced that, like any striker, once he gets one and he cracks it, then we hope he will go on to make a few.
"His contribution now towards the team is enormous.
"He's had a big influence since January.
"He may not have scored the goals but I think he's given everybody a big lift, that's what I was led to believe since January.
"I have no qualms with him because he's a really good team player.
"Yes, we all hope he gets off the mark, hopefully tomorrow (vs Brighton)."
