The United boss said he still wants a number of "quality players in the right positions" after pre-season preparations began in earnest with Damien Duff scoring a hat-trick and new signing Danny Guthrie also getting on the scoresheet in the 4-1 win at Hartlepool.

Keegan said his squad was well off in specific departments, but not others.

He said: "We're very strong in certain positions and where Damien (Duff] plays, Jonas Gutierrez can play, James Milner can play, Charles N'Zogbia can play, Geremi can play.

"We've got five very good players competing for two-and-a-half places.

We haven't got competition everywhere though. We need to address that.

"We might not have been that successful in the market but there's a long time to go, plenty of opportunities.

"If the right player comes in and we think he's right for Newcastle, we'll be there pitching."

Newcastle were without captain Michael Owen and defender Habib Beye at Victoria Park on Saturday due to injury as well as Joey Barton.

New signing Danny Guthrie made an instant impact with a goal, but fellow new recuit Jonas Gutierrez was forced to remain on the sidelines because the Argentine winger's registration has yet to be finalised following his move from Real Mallorca.

"I think by Monday it (his registration] will be fine," Keegan said. ''That's my understanding."