Newcastle United skipper Bruno Guimaraes decided to keep his counsel when approached by reporters moments after his Instagram post on Saturday night.

Bruno was taken off after an average display - by his own high standards - and then posted: "I don’t know what the future holds, but this team will always fight for the best for our club! +3 and see you next week."

Before then clarifying: "Don’t worry guys! I am talking about what happens on the pitch. Thank you again for the support today, see you at St. James’ Park" It is understood that he was alerted by colleagues that his initial post had caused some panic with many jumping to conclusions about what he meant - with some feeling it was a transfer hint.

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After making his way out of St Mary's, Bruno then walked through the outdoor mixed zone and was approached by the North-East press pack. Bruno, who was about to board the bus, looked up and shook his head with the player eager to get home.

During an open and honest press conference, Howe had confirmed that Bruno - who looked bemused when his number came up with 14 minutes left - did not want to be withdrawn but the move had been done for his own good.

It's fair to say the Brazil international looked concerned but clearly only because he felt his performance levels had dropped below the required level. Yet Howe made a big statement by taking off the South American because if Bruno can endure the hook at Newcastle - anybody can.

It will be interesting to see Howe's next team sheet with the head coach admitting after the game that he now has a difficult choice and if players get "upset" at losing their place, their only response should be to fight harder - something Bruno already seems to have pledged.

Bruno could have spoken to reporters after the game to clarify his remarks further and was given the choice to do so. Instead he left the talking to the man who finished the game with captain's armband Dan Burn. It was probably the right choice and if he intended to not deflect from the team's magnificent win, he made the right call.

Reaching 40 points used to be the call for a party

Hitting the 40-point mark, or a safety target, used to be the cause for a celebration at St James' Park.

Back in the days of Steve Bruce and Rafa Benitez, and even Alan Pardew, getting to such a milestone meant the club had hit their goal of staying up. However, Eddie Howe did not look like a man who was ready to pour himself a glass of wine on Saturday night.

He looked like a head coach fired with enthusiasm and hungry for more. All roads to Europe remain open for the Magpies and they are still in both cups. They can't stop here.

No longer the Magpies' bogey ground

Southampton used to be a ground to fear for Newcastle United fans. In the stands, the man who caused them so much pain in the early Premier League years in Matt Le Tissier watched down.

But he was helpless as the current Saints team would not be fit to lace his boots. In any case, under Howe there have been no issues against the Saints.

That's now four wins in a row in all competitions. And with Southampton heading down, it could be a while before this fixture is replaced.