Jonny Pens New Deal

Last updated : 22 September 2006 By Kevin Markey

The Leeds-born 18-year-old, who can play up front or in midfield, was included in Kevin Blackwell's first-team squad for the recent Carling Cup win over Chester and also against Sunderland.

Howson, a regular for the reserves this season, did not leave the substitutes' bench, but is expected to make a breakthrough soon.

"Jonny is an exciting prospect," said Blackwell on the official Leeds website. "There's been significant interest from other clubs, but we've seen him develop nicely as a player and he's coming on.

"He's been involved with the first team and it won't be long before we see him in there."