Kenwyne Jones is hoping the end of his goal drought will boost his push for World Cup glory.
The Trinidad and Tobago striker's clinical last-minute winner at Leicester on Saturday was his first goal since netting the winner at Sheffield Wednesday in August.
Now he is looking to re-establish himself in the Saints attack - despite the arrival of Peter Madsen on loan from Cologne.
He said: "I am not worried by competition for places. If you are looking to get promotion or reach the play-offs then you have to have competition for places.
"I needed that goal though - and the team needed it. I got a couple at the start of the season and then got injured and it was good to get back on the scoresheet.
"Hopefully I have turned the corner and can push on from here but you can never tell from one or two games.
"Obviously I need to be playing as much as possible to keep sharp for the World Cup. I am trying not to think about it because it is still so far away.
"It is very hard not to be excited because it is the first time we have got to the finals and it is going to be a marvellous occasion."