James Collins spoke of the positive but focused mood in the camp as the first-team squad headed up to Newcastle with the aim of maintaining West Ham United's unbeaten run on the road.
The Wales defender was aware from experience that it would be a difficult contest up at Tyneside but said the squad had nothing to fear. "We know it is going to be tough - they have a great squad," he said. Although Newcastle's injury problems are well-documented, Collins was sure a certain striker would still pose a considerable threat.
"I have played against Michael Owen a few times and it's never an easy afternoon when he is playing. But everyone is looking forward to the game. We go into the match on the back of some good results and we want to keep that going."
Collins added that the chance to keep the winning feeling was the priority if the team were to keep on rising. "It is a good habit to be in, winning games. The league is still very tight but we have just got to concentrate on playing good football and getting the right results and see where that takes us."