IF there was any part of Kevin Keegan which thought transforming Newcastle United's fortunes was going to be an easy task, then he has already been made well aware that is not the case.

An FA Cup fourth round defeat at Arsenal may not be the end of the world, although it effectively marks the end of a disappointing campaign.

No trophy to play for, just an outside chance that Keegan can revive an ailing club quickly enough to boost chances of qualifying for the UEFA Cup via the league.

Two games in to his second reign as Newcastle boss and Keegan is yet to see a player in a black and white shirt score a goal.

And with another trip to the Gunners' stately Emirates home on Tuesday, the chances of that improving look no better.

There were positive signs of some decent football being played in the opening half by Newcastle, although Gael Clichy's headed clearance off the line from Alan Smith's shot was their best chance.

A defensive lapse early in the second half allowed Emmanuel Adebayor to break the deadlock, and highlighted why Keegan is so keen to lure Jonathan Woodgate back to Tyneside.

But with Tottenham still leading in the chase for his signature, Keegan's wish to make improvements to his squad before Thursday's deadline is waning.

And, to make matters a tad worse, Adebayor's late second, after waltzing through the defence, and Nicky Butt's horrible own goal hammered home the need for recruitment further.