This year, the tally will rise to four. Howson will not make it to 30 matches this season even if Middlesbrough’s schedule is extended into the play-offs, with his appearance in the goalless draw at Luton Town that preceded the international break only taking him to 11 for the current campaign. The 36-year-old’s ability level has not dipped, it is just that whereas he has previously avoided injury, this has been the year when he has been forced into the treatment room on a disappointingly regular basis.
First, it was a hamstring injury back in August keeping him on the sidelines. Then, when he returned after a couple of months out, it was a calf problem preventing him from playing. Physically, the battle to recover full fitness was tough. Mentally, the challenge of missing so many games at such a late stage of his career was even more difficult to overcome.
“I don’t think anyone is indestructible,” said Howson, who needs seven more senior appearances to reach the 750-mark for his career. “I’ve been very fortunate throughout my career with injuries, but this is by far the worst season I’ve had.
“It’s perspective, though. Of course, it’s been disappointing, but on the flip side, I could have been having seasons like this since I was younger. I’ve spent quite a bit of time with the lads who’ve had long-term injuries, and I feel more for them a lot of the time.
“I still have that disappointment about being injured, which is good, but I can’t complain too much. It’s tough being out, and maybe harder because I’ve not been used to it too much throughout my career. But I can’t be too selfish and can’t complain too much because, in comparison to some, I have been fortunate throughout my career.
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“On the other hand, I’m glad I still feel that frustration and disappointment and drive to get back playing. If that did go, it would probably answer quite a lot. But it’s certainly not the case just yet.”
Instead, Howson is delighted to be back in Boro’s starting side and fully focused on trying to help the Teessiders secure a play-off place in the remaining eight games of the season.
Having spent the vast majority of his career playing in midfield, Howson has been reshuffled to centre-half in the last two matches as injuries have deprived Michael Carrick of his three main central defenders.
His versatility has always been a key asset, with his return to full fitness having been perfectly timed to help plug a gap that could have been extremely debilitating had he not been available.
“I always look forward to playing, so it was nice to get back in the starting line-up,” said Howson. “You do get days where you come in after a game and feel tired, but there are other days where you feel great. That’s just part and parcel of being a footballer.
“It’s been frustrating, being out probably longer than I should have been. I had a couple of setbacks along the way and it’s always frustrating and never nice to be injured. But, touch wood, I’ve been pretty lucky throughout my career to have no major injuries and not have them too often.
“I’m pleased in a way that I do still get frustrated when I’m not available. If you accept it or don’t get a bit down about it, it’d be a sign of the mindset changing.”
And whenever Howson has felt dejected by his situation, he has been able to turn to Michael Carrick and Jonathan Woodgate for advice and support.
“The gaffer has helped a lot by speaking to me at different times,” said Howson. “I’m obviously aware he’s always got a team to prepare for whenever the next game comes. But when he has had time, he has spoken to me and offered valuable advice.
“It’s the same too of Woody and the other staff. It’s good because it’s part of the game. It’s very unlikely you’ll go through a career without a few injuries along the way. That’s part and parcel of pushing yourself and testing yourself on a football pitch.
“Sometimes, you are going to pick up bits of injuries because it’s a difficult job and you compete against tough players. It’s part of the game, as frustrating as it is.”
