Culina insists the Jets will continue to try to play flowing football as they look to turn their season around but the coach acknowledges there has to be a balance as they pursue success.

He believes Wheelhouse could be the key as he returns to action action after suffering an ankle injury during a pre-season friendly against Bankstown.

Wheelhouse played for the Jets' National Youth League side at the weekend and is itching for a return to the A-League.

Culina told the Newcastle Herald: "It's not just about picking nice players.

"They need to have a bit of steel about them because this game away from home is going to require a combination of good football and a lot of mental toughness and steel.

"Certainly Jobey is one of those who comes into calculations. We need to have the right balance in the team."

Newcastle travel to Adelaide United on Monday as they bid to end a run of three straight defeats.