Tommy Conway reacts as Middlesbrough make emotional Jonny Howson announcement
Middlesbrough have announced that Jonny Howson is leaving the club after eight years at the Riverside Stadium.
Boro successfully landed a top-six spot under former boss Michael Carrick in 2022/23, but could only manage a tenth-place finish last term.
Edwards is now tasked with guiding the North East side back into promotion contention, having steered his last club, Luton Town, to the Premier League in 2023.
The 42-year-old must enjoy a strong transfer window as Middlesbrough look to return to the top flight for the first time since suffering relegation back in 2017.
Conway reacts as Middlesbrough confirm Howson departure
Amid Edwards’ efforts to reshape his squad at the Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough announced on Tuesday, 22nd July, that veteran Jonny Howson had departed.
Boro shared the news via Instagram: “We can confirm Jonny Howson has departed the club following the expiry of his contract.
“The 37-year-old spent eight years on Teesside and made 341 appearances, scoring 10 goals. Our former captain also clocked up his 750th career appearance against Plymouth Argyle at the Riverside last season.
“Despite joining as an attacking midfielder, Jonny featured more prominently in a number of other roles, including midfield anchor, central defender, and right-back.
“Signed by Garry Monk in the summer of 2017, Jonny served under Tony Pulis, Jonathan Woodgate, Neil Warnock, Chris Wilder, and Michael Carrick.
“His versatility and composure were a joy to behold, and as club captain, he led by example.
“MFC would like to thank Jonny for his wonderful service, commitment, and dedication, and wish him all the very best for the future.
“Jonny will return to the Riverside in the coming months to say farewell to the supporters.”
Middlesbrough’s announcement attracted a like from Tommy Conway, who scored 13 goals in 36 Championship appearances last season.
Conway holds the key to Edwards’ promotion bid
Football Insider verdict
The fact that Middlesbrough failed to qualify for the playoffs last season was largely down to the fact that their former striker Emmanuel Latte Lath joined Major League Soccer outfit Atlanta United in the winter transfer window.
| Tommy Conway stats | Championship 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 36 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 1 |
Latte Lath notched an impressive return of 11 goals and three assists in 29 Championship appearances last term, before moving to the United States.
However, Latte Lath’s departure has not left Boro with a lack of firepower, as Conway has proven that he can be clinical in the second tier, both at the Riverside Stadium and with his former club Bristol City.
Edwards’ previous promotion-clinching exploits with Luton show that he can be the right man to guide Middlesbrough back to the Premier League, but he will need Conway to be at his best to achieve such lofty ambitions.
Meanwhile, attacking midfielder Morgan Whittaker will look to provide the ex-Bristol City man with strong service in his first full season in the North East.