Steve Bruce has no qualms about his players aiming for the Premier League's top 10.
The Magpies are moving closer to the top half of the table and could even sneak into it if they beat AFC Bournemouth this weekend.
But Bruce knows that only back-to-back Premier League wins will make that a possibility for the Magpies.
He told the Chronicle: "That has to be our aim.
"Especially with the start we had, me coming in late and the new players needing time to adjust. The injury problems too.
"We have had a bit to contend with. When you get a couple of results it can change things.
"Let's hope we can get to that 15 points mark after 12 games, that would be a really decent return."
The Magpies will head off for the last international break of the year after the home clash with the Cherries at St James' Park.
Games with Aston Villa (a) and Manchester City (h) remain for Newcastle this month, but Bruce thinks things really will get interesting in December with six games to come.
He said: "It's winter now and I honestly believe that December will be the defining month. It will be nice to have a little platform to attack December and see where we are.
"In the dark nights like this we have to give the fans something to shout about.
"Last weekend the fans went down in their thousands to West Ham and were delighted with the way the team played. More of the same is needed.
"The dynamics are different because we are the home team and the onus is on us.
"We understand our philosophy at the minute is to play on the counter. In that respect at home it can be difficult.
"Let's hope we can get the victory."
