While handy, I never really liked it. Upon submit of the quick reply, it does say there are a few more .. and lists the last few that are new. So you're made aware of it. However, this is obviously afterwards.
To be honest, thinking realistically. I do not look at the top of the board. I focus on the thread, the post I want to reply to, and my reply to it. Alerts and other things on the page are a distraction, and ignoring it.