Paul Lambert expects Jonny Howson to add even stiffer competition to his midfield unit.

The Leeds captain was at Carrow Road to watch City's goalless Premier League draw against Chelsea after undergoing his medical and agreeing personal terms on a proposed Elland Road transfer.

Norwich City's hierarchy look poised to officially confirm the deal early this week and Lambert is ready for the potential selection headaches ahead, once Howson is fit and firing after his knee injury.

'Hopefully that is just over the line,' said Lambert. 'I think he was here today and watching that I think it's something he'll thrive on for sure. I think everything went okay with the medical, so it's just now getting it over the line. If Jonny comes in and he has a few weeks to get up to speed, then he'll be a massive asset for us.

'I don't look for him to be a squad player. I expect him to push other people that are at the football club and I think Jonny will buy into what you saw today. I think his energy's up there with the rest of them. He was brilliant for Leeds and I think he'll do exceptionally well here.'

Lambert admitted Wes Hoolahan's omission against the Blues had been a big call after captaining the side in the previous weekend's win at West Brom. Further evidence no-one is guaranteed a place under the Scot.

'It was a big decision because I think he has been playing brilliant for us. No doubt about it – a big decision to leave him out,' he said. 'I spoke to him yesterday (Friday) and told him what I was going to do. He was a bit disappointed but he has been a player for this club and will continue to be so. There was no justification for it other than the tactical side of trying a new system because he was excellent against West Brom.'

David Fox partnered Bradley Johnson in a more traditional central midfield alliance designed to handle Chelsea's weight of possession.

'Listen, you know they are going to have plenty of ball retention with the players they have got and the way they play the game, but my lads were brilliant,' said Lambert.