A PROMOTION six-pointer will underpin one of the clashes of the season at Elland Road tomorrow when Leeds United host Norwich City.

The duel pits third-placed Norwich against their hosts, who lie three places but only two points behind in the Championship, so victory for Simon Grayson’s men would put them on a higher perch than the Canaries.

But such is the regard in which tomorrow’s visitors are held that Leeds chairman Ken Bates is hoping both achieve ascent as they did last May when Norwich lifted the Division One title with Leeds in runners-up place.

Labelling Norwich as a good team and club who were well run, he added: “It’d be nice if we both got promotion – them (Norwich) through the play-offs.”

For Leeds midfielder and skipper Jonny Howson not even landing his first England Under-21 cap is going to be allowed to detract from the prime aim of promotion to the top-flight.

In the wake of his unexpected call-up and international debut in the friendly against Italy, Howson has now got the incentive of staking a claim for next summer’s European U21 Championships.

But he said: “I must admit that it’s secondary. If it comes along it will be an added bonus. But for me it’s back to my club and playing well for Leeds.”

Manager Grayson, meanwhile, has confirmed there will be an extended stay for trialist midfielder Michael Stewart, who has featured in more than 200 games for Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Hearts and Hibernian.

Stewart figured in the recent behind closed doors game at Bootham Crescent, where hosts York City shared in a goalless draw.