Howson keeps grounded

Howson keeps grounded

Jonny Howson: Keeping grounded after first goal for Canaries against Everton

Norwich midfielder Jonny Howson is determined to keep grounded despite being compared to Andres Iniesta by boss Paul Lambert.

Howson stepped up from Championship outfit Leeds in January and has made five starts for the Canaries, scoring his first goal in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Everton.

In truth, he could have hardly wished for an easier chance to score - Tim Howard was stranded when Howson tapped home Wes Hoolahan's cross from six yards - but it was his passing and link-up play with Grant Holt that made Lambert liken the youngster to Barca and Spain star Iniesta.

The midfielder knows his top-flight career is only in its infancy, however, and is determined not to get carried away despite the high praise he received from his boss.

"It's not a case of getting carried away. It's a quick turnaround now with us playing Tottenham on Monday and I will just focus on that game for now."
Jonny HowsonQuotes of the week

"It's obviously very nice when you hear comments like that, but it's just one game," Howson said.

"It's not a case of getting carried away.

"It's a quick turnaround now with us playing Tottenham on Monday and I will just focus on that game for now.

Very tough

"This league is very tough. Every game is hard because it's a high standard.

"I am fairly pleased with how it's gone up to now.

"I may have had some decent performances but I have to keep working hard and when you have got quality players around you it does make it easier for yourself."

Having risen through the youth ranks to bec ome skipper at Leeds, Morley-born Howson admitted in January the decision to move to Carrow Road was tough.

The England Under-21 international is happy he has settled in well at his new club, however, and admits he will savour his first Canaries goal for a long time.

"It was a nice moment," he said.

"In the past few games I have had chances that I should have arguably done better with so it's nice that it was put on a plate from Wes.

"It was one of them that you couldn't miss really. It was really nice to get on the scoresheet."