Who is Jonny Howson? The local legend who has returned to Leeds United in unique role

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Jonny Howson is back at Leeds United and here’s everything you need to know about him.

It’s been a busy summer for Leeds United as Daniel Farke is preparing for the return to the Premier League.

Seven signings have been made already, with Farke working to increase the height, physicality and experience of his side.

However, it’s not only the first team that has seen new additions, but the academy system too.

Leeds have recruited Jayden Lienou from Manchester City and Louis Enahoro-Marcus from Liverpool, and have now added someone significantly older to the Under-21s squad.

Legend Jonny Howson is back at the club after 13 years away.

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Who is Jonny Howson?

Jonathan Mark Howson is a veteran midfielder with well over 700 games under his belt who has returned to Leeds.

A local lad, Howson grew up a Leeds fan and came up through the academy alongside James Milner, Danny Rose and Aaron Lennon.

He made his debut aged just 18 and went on to captain the club during his 225 appearances at Elland Road.

Howson moved on to Norwich City, where he played 188 times, and then to Middlesbrough, where he spent eight seasons and played 341 games.

The grizzled midfielder has played 754 games in total but is now winding down his career at Leeds.

How old is Jonny Howson?

Born in Morley, on the outskirts of Leeds, Howson is a local lad and remains beloved at the club.

He was born on May 21, 1988, and as of July 2025, he is 37 years old, making him the perfect age to move into an academy coaching role.

Jonny Howson height

Howson stands at 5’11” tall, which helped him move around the field at pace in his midfield battles during the peak days of his career.

Jonny Howson career stats

Howson’s career stats so far with over 750 appearances made across his three clubs.

Jonny Howson Leeds United return

After appearing on the bench for the Under-21s during pre-season, Leeds confirmed on August 11 that Howson had linked up with the club’s academy.

It has become a trend in recent years for experienced players to wind down their careers by helping develop new talent and playing alongside them.

Jay Spearing and Paul McShane have done it for Liverpool and Manchester United, respectively, and now Howson is doing it at Leeds.

He has joined Scott Gardner’s Under-21s in a player-coach role and told the club’s website: “Once I heard about the opportunity and with what this club means to me, it was something I was really excited about.

“I grew up with Scott in the academy and he has played a big part in me coming back.

“I feel I can really offer something to the group as I have been where they are now and I am definitely a bit biased, but we all want to see academy players progressing through this club.

“So if I can help off the pitch, or on it when required, then it is something I am really excited about and I can’t wait to get going.”