He eventually returned to the side in February, scoring both goals in Leeds' 2–0 victory over Cheltenham Town. He gradually re-established himself as a first team regular with Fabian Delph being moved out to a wide left midfield position. Howson finished the season in a permanent central midfield place alongside Neil Kilkenny and started in both of the club's two unsuccessful play-off semi-finals against Millwall.
After an absence, he returned to his usual position in February, scoring two goals as Leeds defeated Cheltenham Town 2–0. He gradually secured a regular starting spot with Fabian Delph shifted to a wide left midfield role. Howson finished the season playing centrally alongside Neil Kilkenny and started both of the club's play-off semi-final matches against Millwall.