David Rozehnal is 'convinced' Kevin Keegan's 'natural authority' will ensure Newcastle United climb the Premier League table.

The Magpies' poor start to the season led to the departure of Sam Allardyce, with Keegan sensationally returning as manager earlier this month.

Newcastle currently sit 12th in the table and have picked up just two league wins in their previous 14 fixtures.

But Rozehnal, who was brought to St James' Park by Allardyce last summer, is positive Keegan will turn the club's fortunes around.

Natural authority

"He has natural authority; that is why he is a legend of English and world football," Rozehnal told Pravo.

"To us players he is more like a friend, like one of us.

"For example, the preparation for the Bolton game was completely different to what it was under Sam Allardyce.

"Keegan was sitting amongst us, spoke to each of us and told each player what he wanted from him to play in the game, cheered him and motivated as if he was an older team-mate.

"This is exactly what we needed in this period of time. I am convinced that under him we will go up."

Midfield dream

Rozehnal also explained that he realised a dream last Saturday when he played in midfield against Bolton Wanderers.

"After nearly a year I played in centre midfield. It was also one of my dreams, to play in this position, and this dream has come true," he concluded.