Bruno Guimaraes issues 34-word statement following Newcastle United cup exit

Bruno Guimaraes vowed to “save” Newcastle United’s season in the final 10 Premier League games.

The Magpies blew their only chance of winning a trophy by losing 2-0 to Manchester City. In truth, few Toon supporters gave the Magpies a prayer against a side regarded as the best in world football.

City broke the deadlock after just 13 minutes and, barring a first-half chance from Alexander Isak, were barely tested by the visitors. Newcastle improved following a quartet of substitutions but still failed to land a glove on Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering outfit.

Defeat ended any hopes of breaking the silverware duck - extending Newcastle's barren domestic run to 70 years. Eddie Howe was adamant post-match that their season is not over as they aim to finish in the European places.

While Champions League qualification remains unlikely, Newcastle can realistically qualify for the Conference League and have an outside chance of the Conference League. Ensuring any form of UEFA competition could prove vital in attracting summer arrivals and, most importantly, keeping current stars on Tyneside.

Toon favourite Guimaraes - who penned a new deal in October - hinted at that being the case following the 3-2 win at Nottingham Forest last month. On social media after the Man City defeat, the Brazilian rallied supporters - insisting Newcastle have plenty to play for.

“Struggling to find words now!” he wrote. “(I am) disappointed to not go through in the FA Cup. We still have 10 games in the Premier League to save our season. We count on our fans as always.”