Classy midfielder Jonny Howson is revelling in Norwich City's continued efforts to play free-flowing football.

The Canaries won plenty of admirers for their passing approach as they clinched an immediate return to the top flight last season. And it was no different at the weekend when – especially in the opening quarter – they carved Crystal Palace apart beautifully to create a golden chance. While Lewis Grabban failed to finish that sweeping first-half move, Howson admits he was encouraged by the manner in which the opportunity came about.

The 27-year-old said: 'It did give us a lot of heart that we can play this way at this level. I remember being told as a young lad; 'As long as you're creating chances it's not the time to worry. It's when you're not creating the chances that you need to worry'.'

The former Leeds United maestro was deployed in an unusual right-sided role during the 3-1 Premier League defeat. But he flourished before being moved back into a central position upon Nathan Redmond's introduction.

'I've always looked at it the same as every other lad in the changing room. First and foremost you want to be in that starting XI,' added Howson.

'As players you do what the manager asks of you. He obviously picks the side he thinks is best. It's something I'm enjoying, playing out wide, and – although the bottom line is winning games – I enjoyed how we played on Saturday. To me it's all about playing football in the right way, which we did.'