JONNY Howson’s future at Middlesbrough remains unclear with talks over a new contract continuing to be shelved until the end of the season.

Having spent the last five seasons on Teesside having signed from Norwich City, the club captain is out of contract in the summer alongside, Neil Taylor, Sol Bamba and Lee Peltier.

Boro’s season may well be extended by a few more weeks should they make it into the Championship play-offs on the final day of the season against Preston North End. But until they know their fate, talks will still be on hold.

When quizzed by BBC Radio Tees Sport about where his future lies, Howson answered: “I’m not too sure at this stage. We will wait until the end of the season. We’re not at the end of the season yet so we’ll see what happens.”

Howson has been a popular figure on Teesside over the course of his career. The 33-year-old has featured 217 times for the club since signing in 2017 and has been a regular in the side under Boro boss Chris Wilder.

The manager was asked the question regarding his out-of-contract players back in February whether he would be holding discussions with them regarding a new deal.

Wilder responded: “The players are okay. They’ll get on with it. There’s different ways of approaching it as well so that’s the way. I don’t see us dealing with anyone now. I think we’ve dealt with everything.

“We’re tied up with the young boys in terms of their futures which is crucial. At the football club, we’re well stocked in that now which gives us a lot of comfort as well. 

“The older boys will be alright, they understand it and when the timing is right then we’ll be speaking to them. That will filter through to you guys. 

“I’ve been in that situation. There’s Jonny Howson, Lee Peliter and Sol Bamba. Those boys are out of contract. 

“Do they want to stay here? I’ve not really had them discussions but I believe what they’ve produced on the pitch and their attitude around the place that they want to be part of something that’s going forward and is going to be a success. 

“They’ll understand that and they will know that they need to keep the hammer down in terms of what they’re producing on and off the pitch.”