Steve Howard

Steven John Howard (born 10 May 1976 in Durham, England) is a retired striker renowned for his aerial prowess and classic target‑man style. Beginning his football journey in the non‑league ranks with Tow Law Town while juggling a demanding day‑job as a roofer, Howard’s work ethic propelled him to Hartlepool United in 1995 where he made 145 league appearances and scored 26 goals. His performances caught the eye of Northampton Town, resulting in a record £120,000 transfer in 1999, and later a move to Luton Town in 2001 for a modest fee that proved priceless as he amassed over 100 goals, earning a place among the club’s all‑time top scorers and a League One title in 2005. Howard’s tenacity shone during Luton’s tumultuous takeover period, where despite a hernia‑induced layoff he emerged as the top scorer for three consecutive seasons, a feat highlighted by his Golden Boot win in Division 3. In 2006 he signed for Derby County for £1 million, quickly becoming a fan favourite by netting 19 goals in his debut season and helping the club secure promotion to the Premier League via the 2006‑07 play‑off final, a campaign that earned him the Jack Stamps Trophy as player of the season. After a brief Premier League stint with Derby, Howard joined Leicester City in January 2008, initially on loan before making the move permanent for £1.5 million. He contributed crucial goals that aided Leicester’s promotion back to the Championship as League One champions in 2009 and was named the club’s player of the season. Subsequent seasons saw him transition into a valuable impact substitute, setting a club record for most appearances off the bench. Howard returned to his roots at Hartlepool United in 2012, but a tumultuous spell that included a loan to Sheffield Wednesday and a contract termination in 2013 marked the end of his professional playing career. Internationally, although English‑born, he qualified for Scotland B and scored on his sole appearance in 2007. Known for his dedication, Howard remains a celebrated figure among Luton supporters and retains a lifelong allegiance to Newcastle United, a passion he fulfilled by playing at St James’ Park with Derby in 2007.