Jonny Howson has been quick to express optimism about Leeds’ future after signing an improved contract.

The 20-year-old midfielder agreed on Friday to stay at Elland Road until at least 2011, with another year added automatically if United gain promotion to the Championship.

Howson confidently expects that extra year to kick in and said: “Everyone at the club is looking upwards. We have to get promoted and back where we should be.

“If it hadn’t been for the points deduction last season we would have gone up but that’s gone now. There’s a new season to look forward to and I am sure everyone will come back thinking about promotion.”

Howson was heartbroken when Leeds lost to Doncaster in the League One play-off final at Wembley.

But he said: “There is no point dwelling on the past because you can’t change it, though the disappointment could drive us on.”