The happy life of Brian

The Tykes skipper has enjoyed a fine 2007/08 campaign, leading the club to the semi-finals of the FA Cup and second tier safety.

His commanding performances have drawn admiring glances from a host of Premier League clubs, and he was also named in the PFA Team of the Year for the Championship on Sunday night.

His current deal at Oakwell is due to expire at the end of the next season, but Howard admits that he has no desire to seek a move anywhere else.

"I'm happy at Barnsley," Howard said. "I like it there. I'm under contract for another year and I enjoying my football there.

"Obviously it's been a great season and I'm happy to stay there. I'm club captain, which I enjoy a lot and am privileged to have, and I'm enjoying my football and we'll see what happens.

"I've got a year left on my deal, but hopefully the club will come and we'll talk soon."

Barnsley secured their Championship status with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Charlton on Saturday, and their manager Simon Davey is hoping that the financial implications of remaining in that division will help the club to secure the long-term futures of their best players.

"Financially, it would have crippled us to go down and perhaps now we can keep our better players," Davey said.

"It's crucial for a club like ours to stay in this division. We've got good players and good players want to play at the highest level.

"It's important to keep all of them, not just Brian."