Steve Bruce is hoping that the return of one or two "big players" will help re-ignite Newcastle United after their 5-0 hammering at Manchester City.
The Toon boss is keeping his fingers crossed that Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin are fit to play at Watford on Saturday afternoon while Jamaal Lascelles could also be back to lead the team.
Victory for the Magpies would ensure they beat last season's tally of 45 points in the Premier League.
Bruce said: "Unfortunately, the other night, and I’m not trying to make excuses because we were badly beaten, but we had too many of our big players not available. It turned into one of those awful nights for us.
"In 38 games I'm sure most teams have had those awful days.
"In football, you have the chance to go again and we've got it around the corner.
"I expect and demand a better performance tomorrow and I'm confident the players will do that."
Bruce, though, knows exactly how much of a test Watford will give his side.
The Hornets are still far from safety in the top-flight.
Bruce said: "When you look at what Watford have got on paper then you wonder why it's been a struggle, but that's the Premier League.
"Nigel [Pearson] has done a wonderful job in turning them round.
"It will be tough tomorrow, that's for sure, so we better get ready for it."
