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.
He returned to his original position in February, scoring both goals in Leeds' 2–0 victory over Cheltenham Town. He gradually regained his place as a regular starter with Fabian Delph being moved to a wide left midfield position. Howson finished the season in a permanent central midfield role alongside Neil Kilkenny and started in both of the club's unsuccessful play-off semi-finals against Millwall.